The agent of Manchester United forward Benjamin Sesko has launched a strong defence of his client's abilities, directly challenging the 'super sub' label that has been attached to the Slovenian international in recent weeks.
Agent Basanovic Voices Displeasure with Nickname
Elvis Basanovic, representing the £74 million summer signing from RB Leipzig, has made his feelings clear in an interview with Arena Sport. "If you ask me about this name, I don't like it. I like 'super striker' much more," Basanovic stated emphatically. "I think Benjamin is a super striker."
Statistical Breakdown of Sesko's Contributions
The 22-year-old has found the net ten times across all competitions during his debut campaign at Old Trafford. Significantly, four of those crucial goals have come as a second-half substitute, including dramatic match-winners against Fulham and Everton, plus a vital late equaliser versus West Ham United.
"He has started 13 games this year, coming off the bench in 13 games," Basanovic highlighted. "He scored half of his goals when he started the game and half when he came off the bench. We can see that he is a complete striker and Benjamin is someone who deserves the name 'super striker.'"
Growing Calls for Starting Role
Despite his impactful contributions from the bench, demands have been mounting from supporters and pundits alike for interim manager Michael Carrick to include Sesko in the starting lineup more consistently. The striker's ability to change games in the latter stages has been both a blessing and a source of frustration for those who believe his talents warrant regular starting opportunities.
Player's Perspective on Adaptation
Interestingly, Sesko himself appeared more measured about his situation when speaking in February. "We are talking, of course, but he [Carrick] believes in me, everyone believes in me," the forward explained. "They are getting me ready to start as soon as possible. It's more about me showing up when it's important, no matter how many minutes I'm getting."
He added further context about his adaptation to English football: "I'm getting settled in the league from game to game. Again, I'm not even thinking about 'I have to start, I have to start.' For me it's just whenever coach decides to put me there one time or not I'm just going to be there."
Current Fitness Situation
Sesko featured for the final 19 minutes during United's recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth. However, the club confirmed on Monday that the striker has been managing a minor injury, which has necessitated his withdrawal from the Slovenia national team squad during the current international break to focus on rehabilitation.
This development comes at a crucial juncture as Manchester United prepare to resume Premier League action on Monday, 13 April, with a highly anticipated clash against historic rivals Leeds United at Old Trafford. Both the player and his representatives will be hoping for increased involvement as the season reaches its decisive phase.
The public comments from Basanovic represent a significant intervention in the ongoing discussion about Sesko's role at Manchester United, highlighting the tension between his undeniable impact as a substitute and the broader aspirations for his development as a leading striker at one of football's most prestigious clubs.
