Supersub’s ‘ruthless finish’ keeps Man United soaring

When Manchester United were looking for a saviour this season, they opted not to revert to their greatest supersub.

- RICHARD JOLLY

They may not have Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the dugout but they seem to have his successor in spirit on the pitch. Benjamin Sesko is yet to start a game under Michael Carrick but he has come off the bench to score three times, all significant goals, delivering an extra five points.

First, the winner against Fulham, then an equaliser at West Ham, now a decider at Everton. It was early by Sesko’s standards - in the 71st minute, rather than injury time, when Jordan Pickford denied him a second - but it felt further evidence of Carrick’s nous. United had looked blunt before his arrival, lacking inspiration and a focal point in attack. Sesko is the only pure No 9 in the squad and, once again, he illustrated the merits of a penalty-box presence. In time, Carrick may have an issue if he can keep naming Sesko on the bench. For now, their alliance is benefiting both. Carrick said: “I have got a really good relationship with Ben. He has taken some huge steps recently.”

In a game low on drama, the goal came from a sweeping move. Everton, who had been the more positive in the second half, may regret committing too many men forward, leaving themselves open to the counterattack which, whether under Carrick or Solskjaer, tends to be United’s most potent weapon.