Tim Sherwood has raised concerns regarding Benjamin Sesko's readiness to take on the role of Manchester United’s main striker. The ex-Tottenham and Aston Villa manager highlighted that Michael Carrick has only introduced the Slovenian forward from the bench in all three matches of the new season.
In the latest match, Sesko came on late against Everton and scored with a header in the 88th minute to put United ahead. However, Carrick’s side failed to hold onto their lead, with Ainsley Maitland-Niles equalising in stoppage time, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Sherwood commented:
Where can United find a ready-made top striker? Everyone is looking for one, Arsenal too.
Sesko is not yet the answer because no one wants to start him. He looks decent off the bench and has scored a few goals.
If he were already a top-level forward, wouldn’t Michael Carrick have him in the starting line-up? Of course, he would. There would be no need to play someone else in that position.
Sherwood also believes that United's problems extend beyond just the attack. He feels the team lacks a midfielder capable of shielding the defence:
They need protection in front of the back line. Youri Tielemans is good; he can advance the ball with his passing and control the tempo. Kobbie Mainoo and Andre Santos possess similar qualities.
Think back to the old Arsenal: they had Patrick Vieira and Emmanuel Petit who covered vast spaces and protected their defenders. That’s the kind of shield Manchester United needs.
I don’t think Carlos Baleba is that player. He’s energetic, covers a lot of ground, and doesn't stop until the final whistle. But I’m not convinced he can just sit in front of the defence and control that area.
Nevertheless, the pundit urged caution in making far-reaching conclusions after the draw with Everton. Sherwood noted that without Maitland-Niles’ long-range strike in stoppage time, the perception of United’s result would have been quite different.
