Carrick praises ‘significant talent’ Sesko following Manchester United’s victory.
Michael Carrick referred to Benjamin Sesko as a “big talent” after the Manchester United forward came off the bench on Sunday to net a stoppage-time winner in the 3-2 victory at Old Trafford against Fulham.
Sesko, 22, has yet to make a start under Carrick since the former United midfielder took over as head coach last month and had only accumulated nine minutes as a substitute in his first two matches in charge.
However, the Slovenia international secured the win for United, marking his sixth goal in 21 appearances since his summer transfer from RB Leipzig by scoring in the 94th minute after receiving an assist from Bruno Fernandes.
“It was a significant moment,” Carrick stated. “We are extremely pleased, everyone in the dressing room. The reception he received when he returned to the changing room said it all.
“He has been sharp in training, and he has looked threatening. Ben is a big talent, with many positive attributes.
“And today was a crucial goal. To score a winner in front of the Stretford End is something you dream about. He truly earned it.”
United had been comfortably leading 2-0 before Fulham equalized with two goals after the 85th minute, but Carrick expressed that he maintained confidence in United’s capacity to respond and secure a winner.
“I remained quite calm throughout,” he remarked. “I was disappointed with the second goal, but I was aware there were eight minutes remaining and still optimistic we would create a moment.
“It is challenging to keep your emotions in check when a goal like that is scored, but I felt we would have a chance.
“The excitement is part of this club, but it is not always the simplest path. We would prefer to win matches more comfortably.”
Fulham manager Marco Silva indicated that his team’s decline was triggered by a “horrendous” decision made by referee John Brooks and the VAR officials.
Brooks seemed to have awarded a penalty for a foul by Jorge Cuenca on Matheus Cunha, but replays indicated that the Fulham defender had cleanly won the ball.
After a lengthy review, the penalty was rescinded, and a free kick was given to United for a shirt pull by Cuenca on Cunha. United scored directly from the set-piece when Casemiro headed in Fernandes’s free kick.
“The narrative of the game began with a horrendous decision from John Brooks regarding the penalty he awarded,” Silva stated. “A terrible decision from that moment, a significant mistake.
“It was the first time we witnessed all the Premier League fans, along with us coaches and players. We must channel all this frustration to win the next match.
“The penalty was given due to the tackle. Subsequently, because the decision was so poor, they identified a different foul.
“The reason for the free kick being awarded? My goodness! It was a terrible, terrible decision.”
