Manchester United strengthened their bid for a return to the UEFA Champions League as substitute Benjamin Sesko scored the decisive goal and goalkeeper Senne Lammens delivered a standout performance in a 1-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Monday night.
United head coach Michael Carrick praised Sesko’s rapid development after the 22-year-old again made a decisive impact from the bench, continuing a remarkable run of form that has lifted United into fourth place in the league table.
Sesko struck in the 71st minute at Hill Dickinson Stadium, finishing calmly after a lung-bursting run of nearly 70 yards. The goal followed his stoppage-time equaliser against West Ham earlier this month, underlining his growing influence despite not starting under Carrick.
The Slovenian forward has now scored eight goals this season, six of them in his last seven appearances. Having managed only two goals earlier in the campaign following his £73.7m move from RB Leipzig, Sesko’s resurgence has been central to United’s recent surge.
Carrick acknowledged debate over Sesko’s role but insisted the player’s mentality has been exemplary. He said the striker’s confidence and belief were clear, adding that he consistently delivers when called upon.
While Sesko settled the contest at one end, Lammens proved equally decisive at the other. The 23-year-old goalkeeper made a series of crucial saves, including a powerful strike from Michael Keane, and dealt confidently with sustained pressure as Everton pushed for an equaliser.
Everton manager David Moyes described Lammens as the best player on the pitch, highlighting his command of the penalty area and composure under pressure.
Carrick also benefited from United’s recruitment decision last summer to trust Lammens rather than pursue a move for Emi Martinez. The Belgian, signed for £18.1m, has quickly justified that faith with assured performances.
United have now gone 10 Premier League matches unbeaten for the first time since 2021 and sit three points behind Aston Villa, while holding a three-point advantage over Chelsea and Liverpool. With no European commitments, Carrick’s side are well placed to secure a top-four finish.
Former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar was among those drawing comparisons with Lammens, though Carrick cautioned against direct parallels, instead praising the young keeper’s calmness and reliability.
At the start of the season, a Europa League spot was considered the realistic target at Old Trafford. However, following managerial changes and a sustained run of form, Champions League qualification is now firmly within reach.
With inputs from BBC