'So pleased' - Carrick hails Sesko’s late winner and Mainoo’s composure after Fulham win

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has showered praise on Benjamin Sesko and Kobbie Mainoo after their key roles in a dramatic 3-2 Premier League victory over Fulham on Sunday.

Sesko proved to be the match-winner at Old Trafford, scoring a stoppage-time goal just minutes after Fulham had stunned the home crowd by fighting back from two goals down to equalise late in the contest.

Reacting after the game, Carrick could not hide his delight at the Slovenian striker’s decisive contribution.

“Huge moment. I’m so, so pleased. Everyone in the changing room, players, staff, delighted for him, absolutely delighted for him and the reception he got when he came back in the changing room told us everything,” Carrick said.

The United boss highlighted Sesko’s mentality and resilience, especially after the forward had missed an earlier chance in the game. Carrick stressed that the striker’s match-winning moment was a reward for his hard work in training.

“He’s been fantastic. We’ve worked with him a lot in different ways over the last couple of weeks. Ben’s a big talent; he’s got so many positive things. And today’s a huge goal because that feeling as a striker to score a winner in front of the Stretford End late like that, it’s what you dream of.

“After missing the chance, to go again and put that away. Absolutely so, so pleased for him. He really deserved it,” Carrick explained.

Carrick also reserved strong praise for Kobbie Mainoo, who delivered another assured display in midfield alongside Casemiro, helping United cope with Fulham’s tactical approach.

“Yeah, I think Kobbie’s performance was very, very good today in so many ways again. You could see the way Fulham played and overloaded the middle at times; there was a lot of work for Kobbie and Case to do,” Carrick said.

The United manager was particularly impressed by Mainoo’s maturity and calmness on the ball, despite his young age.

“Without the ball, I thought he’s done terrific in that. And then with the ball, he’s not really fazed by it. You forget how young he is still. He’s still got loads to come, but seeing him today and playing with that kind of confidence and belief is a real joy to watch,” Carrick added.