Why Benjamin Sesko is dropped for Manchester United vs Aston Villa
Michael Carrick has explained his team selection ahead of Man Utd’s game against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
Carrick spoke ahead of kick-off.(Image: Sky Sports)
Michael Carrick has changed his Manchester United attack to face Aston Villa because he wants to get the “balance” of his team right. Benjamin Sesko has been named on the bench this afternoon with Amad coming into the starting XI.
United have had 13 days to prepare for Aston Villa, and Carrick has reacted to the Newcastle defeat by making two changes, bringing Amad and Diogo Dalot into the team for Noussair Mazraoui and Sesko.
When asked about his decision to start Amad and bench Sesko, Carrick told Sky Sports: “We’ve got a good forward line to choose from. It is getting that balance right from game to game. Over the eight games, we have had a good impact in different ways coming off the bench.”
Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. And don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.
Speaking about the game, Carrick added: “Great for us to have a game like this with so much to play for. They’re a tough team with a good coach – it has the makings of a really good game.
“There is a bit more time to prepare – the rhythm is slightly affected in some ways, but we have not made anything of it. It is what it is. I think you approach it with lots of positivity. We’re playing at home.
“It is a big game, it is important, and we’re on a decent run of form. A bit of a setback, but it happens in football. It is not the end of the world.”
United are third in the Premier League and will move six points clear of Chelsea in fifth position if they beat Villa. Chelsea lost ground in the race for Champions League qualification after losing to Newcastle this weekend.
The Premier League is expected to receive a fifth Champions League qualification spot again this season.
Carrick suffered his first defeat since his interim appointment against Newcastle at St. James’ Park. United lost 2-1 against 10-man Newcastle after an 89th-minute goal from Will Osula.