Michael Carrick Looks to Finish Strong with Benjamin Sesko Available Against Sunderland
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick will be able to rely on Benjamin Sesko against Sunderland, though he may not be in the starting lineup.
The Red Devils have already secured their spot in the next edition of the Champions League after defeating Liverpool 3-2 at Old Trafford last Sunday.
Despite this achievement, Carrick and his squad are eager to conclude the season on a high note, aiming for positive results in the final three matches, beginning with their visit to the Stadium of Light.
Benjamin Sesko is Available Once Again
This week, there were concerns regarding Sesko’s condition. The Slovenian striker scored the second goal against Liverpool but sustained an injury after colliding with the advertising boards.
However, in a recent update, Carrington insider Sully confirmed that the 23-year-old will be part of the travelling squad.
While it is uncertain whether the ‘monster’ striker—described as such by Micah Richards—will be fit enough to start, it is likely that Carrick will avoid risking him now that the club has achieved its primary season objective.
Additionally, Carrick may take this opportunity to give playing time to those who have featured less during his tenure.
In this scenario, Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount are prime candidates to enter the starting lineup. The Dutch striker and the English midfielder might compete for one position, with Mount potentially having the upper hand in Carrick’s selection. Thus, Mount could start on the left wing, allowing Matheus Cunha to lead the front line.
Regarding the former Wolves star, earlier reports indicated that the Brazilian national team had reached an agreement with Man Utd to rest him before the World Cup. Cunha himself dismissed the rumor on social media, yet he will be keen to make an impact on the pitch.
The Rest of the Man Utd Starting Lineup Against Sunderland
Amad Diallo is expected to be picked over Bryan Mbeumo, as the Ivorian needs to regain his best form after a tough stretch.
Seeking to equal or break the Premier League assist record for a single season, Bruno Fernandes will certainly retain his spot in the lineup, supported by the trusted double pivot of Kobbi Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte.
Lisandro Martinez should return to partner with Harry Maguire after serving a three-match ban, sending the in-form Ayden Heaven to the bench.
Luke Shaw has been continuously active this season, so this might be the ideal time to allow him some well-deserved rest, particularly since he has faced physical challenges in recent weeks. If that is the case, Noussair Mazraoui will likely start at left-back, while Diogo Dalot remains on the right.
Manchester United’s predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Mount; Cunha.