Benjamin Sesko endured a night to forget as Manchester United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Brighton, despite taking an early 2-0 lead at Old Trafford.
Shea Lacey and Mason Mount put Michael Carrick’s side in control inside the opening 10 minutes, but Brighton recovered to win 3-2. Sesko, selected as United’s central striker, was replaced in the 66th minute after failing to make a significant impact.
Benjamin Sesko struggled to influence Brighton defeat
The striker managed just 23 touches during his time on the pitch. He attempted 14 passes and completed eight, giving him a pass accuracy of 57 per cent, while creating no chances for his team-mates.
Sesko also failed to register a shot. He tried two dribbles without completing either and lost possession 13 times, while winning only four of his nine physical duels.
His lack of involvement was particularly notable given United’s strong start. The hosts finished with 11 attempts, four of which were on target, but none came from Sesko.
Brighton created the greater threat overall, recording 18 shots, five big chances and 39 touches inside the United penalty area as they completed their comeback.
The service to Sesko was not consistently reliable, with United completing only one of their 10 crosses. However, his performance also highlighted the need for him to become more involved when his side are struggling to create clear openings.
Greater movement across the defensive line, occasional runs into midfield and improved hold-up play would give him more opportunities to link with Mount, Lacey and Marcus Rashford. His limited passing involvement suggested he became increasingly detached from the attack.
Most concerning for United was that Sesko did not work himself into a shooting position during 66 minutes. While a forward can still influence a match after missing chances, failing to attempt one pointed to a wider lack of involvement.
Sesko has time to adapt at Manchester United, but the defeat by Brighton represented a missed opportunity. He was unable to impose himself on the visitors’ defence before being substituted as United’s Carabao Cup campaign came to an end.
