Gary Lineker, the legendary England footballer, has criticized the lack of playing time for Benjamin Sesko at Manchester United this season, calling it "strange." Sesko came on late in his team's recent derby defeat against Manchester City, despite high expectations for his inclusion in the starting lineup.
Sesko's Brilliant Performance Last Season
Benjamin Sesko, who showed outstanding form under Michael Craig at the end of last season, scoring 10 goals in 15 matches, has struggled to secure a starting position this season, only appearing as a substitute in the first four Premier League games. Matheus Cunha, another striker on the team, has been chosen as the focal point of Craig's attack, even though he has yet to score.
Sesko, who was seeking a regular spot in his team's starting lineup, entered the field as a substitute in the derby on Sunday, only coming on in the 67th minute, just after Erling Haaland controversially scored City's first goal. This decision by Michael Craig faced significant criticism, with many football experts believing Sesko should have come on earlier.
Criticism of Michael Craig and His Approach
Lineker pointed out in a television program that despite Sesko's good performances in the last two matches, he has consistently been on the bench, which is surprising. He also noted the shortcomings of other strikers on the team and questioned why Sesko is never chosen as the main striker. According to Lineker, "This is really strange. Sesko has scored in recent matches, yet still has no place in the starting lineup. Given the current performance of the team, there likely needs to be changes in the attack."
Alan Shearer, the all-time top scorer in the Premier League, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Sesko should have come on earlier in the second half. He said, "I think he should have come on at least ten minutes earlier. While there is talk of strengthening the attack and midfield, it seems the team's defense has not been adequately reinforced, resulting in the attack not being strong enough."
Gary Neville, another Manchester United legend, also expressed his doubts about Craig's decisions, stating, "It seems Craig needs to make changes to the lineup soon. When you know the game is not going well, you should utilize Sesko as a new force to gain control of the match."
Manchester United now must return to their next game against Brighton in the third round of the Carabao Cup, with Sesko and his teammates hoping to get back to winning ways. Following a 1-1 draw against Fulham in their previous match, the team will be looking for victory in upcoming games.
