Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces a frustrating selection headache ahead of tomorrow's trip to Sunderland, with his most in-form player now a doubt for the crucial Premier League clash.
Benjamin Sesko, who has been electric in recent weeks, picked up a concerning injury during United's victory over Liverpool last Sunday. The Slovenian striker was withdrawn at half-time after an impressive first-half display that included scoring his 11th Premier League goal of the season—a remarkable tally for a debut campaign in English football.
The concern centers around an incident in the first half when Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate barged Sesko off the pitch while chasing a loose ball. The young forward clattered into the advertising boards down Old Trafford's steep pitchside drop, aggravating an existing shin injury he had been managing. Despite no foul being awarded by referee Darren England, Sesko's discomfort was evident as he failed to reappear for the second half, with Amad Diallo taking his place.
This is particularly frustrating timing for both player and manager. Since Ruben Amorim's departure in January, no United player has scored more than Sesko's nine goals, highlighting just how vital he has become to the team's attacking output. The 21-year-old has been enjoying his most prolific spell in a red shirt and would have been desperate to add to his tally against Sunderland's Black Cats.
On a more positive note, Sesko appears to be the only fresh injury concern for Carrick this week. The United squad is otherwise fit and available, with only long-term absentee Matthijs de Ligt remaining on the sidelines. This gives Carrick plenty of attacking options, with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo both capable deputies should Sesko be ruled out.
Kick-off at the Stadium of Light is set for 3pm tomorrow, and all eyes will be on the team sheet to see if the red-hot Slovenian has made the trip to Wearside. For fans heading to the match or watching from home, it's a situation that could significantly impact United's attacking approach—and perhaps even the final result.