Shearer Plays Down Significance of Sesko Setback
Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has suggested that Benjamin Sesko's injury will not significantly hamper Manchester United's Premier League campaign. The Slovenian striker, a £74 million summer signing from RB Leipzig, sustained a knee problem during United's 2-2 draw with Tottenham just before the November international break.
The 22-year-old consequently missed Slovenia's World Cup qualifiers against Kosovo and Sweden. Medical assessments indicate he could be side-lined for approximately a month, a blow for manager Ruben Amorim.
Amorim's Squad Depth Provides Comfort
Despite the absence of their major attacking acquisition, Shearer does not believe the situation is critical for the Red Devils. Speaking through Betfair, the Premier League's all-time top scorer offered his analysis.
"Benjamin Sesko's injury won't impact Man Utd too much," Shearer stated. "Ruben Amorim has already shown that, if you're not up to it, he won't play you. He's already made enough big decisions not to be phased by what the outside noise is."
Shearer emphasised the manager's strong character, adding: "I don't suspect that bothers him at all. He'd love Sesko to be fit, come off the bench and have an impact, but he won't have that option."
United's Form and Forthcoming Fixtures
The former England captain pointed to the successful integration of other new signings as a reason for optimism. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were highlighted as players who have adapted well, providing Amorim with quality alternatives in attack.
"Given how well the likes of Cunha and Mbeumo have been [doing] since joining, it's not as if Sesko's injury is a disaster," Shearer commented. "Results are improving at Man Utd."
Indeed, after a disappointing 15th-place finish last season, the team has shown marked improvement. United currently sit seventh in the table with a record of five wins, three draws, and three defeats from their opening 11 matches. They are unbeaten in their last five outings, a run that includes victories over Liverpool and Brighton.
The team's immediate schedule is demanding. They return to action with a Monday night fixture at Old Trafford against a resurgent Everton under David Moyes. This is followed by a trip to face Crystal Palace, with further challenging matches against Wolves, Aston Villa, West Ham, Bournemouth, and a Boxing Day clash with Newcastle United on the horizon.
