Former Premier League manager Tim Sherwood has launched a stunning attack on Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko, insisting the player is "not good enough" for the club despite his match-saving double against Burnley.
A Night of Contrasts at Turf Moor
The drama unfolded during United's Premier League clash at Turf Moor on Wednesday, 8 January 2026, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Interim boss Darren Fletcher saw his side twice take the lead against the relegation-threatened Clarets, only to be pegged back on each occasion.
The Red Devils fell behind to an Ayden Heaven own goal before Sesko announced his return to form. The Slovenian forward, who had last scored in a 2-0 win over Sunderland on 4 October, ended a lengthy drought exacerbated by a knee injury. He first showed classic predatory instincts to finish a Bruno Fernandes through ball, before clinically converting a cross from Patrick Dorgu in the second period.
Sherwood's Harsh Half-Time Verdict
Despite Sesko's performance drawing praise from Sky Sports colleague Gary Neville, who hailed a "really good finish", Sherwood remained utterly unconvinced. The pundit revealed he had called for Sesko to be substituted at half-time and doubled down on his criticism after the final whistle.
"I had him off the pitch at half time, never wear a Man United shirt again," Sherwood stated bluntly. "I stand by what I say, he's not good enough to play for Man United." He conceded that the two goals were a positive for the player's confidence but dismissed the achievement due to the quality of the opposition, adding: "He's turned up for one game against Burnley who are going to get relegated."
Fletcher's United Stumble as Sesko Seeks Consistency
The result was a significant setback for caretaker manager Darren Fletcher, whose side failed to beat the 19th-placed team in the league. For Sesko, the challenge is now to build on this display and silence his critics. He came close to a memorable hat-trick, only to be denied by former United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
Whether this brace marks a genuine turning point for the £55 million signing or merely a flash in the pan remains to be seen. Sherwood's scathing comments have undoubtedly set the agenda, placing the young striker under even greater scrutiny as Manchester United's turbulent season continues.
