‘I’d be shocked’: Merson thinks it’s nailed-on that ‘relentless’ Man Utd star is restored to XI vs Brighton | OneFootball

Paul Merson believes Benjamin Sesko will return to the starting XI when Manchester United welcome Brighton and Hove Albion to Old Trafford this evening.

The Red Devils are seeking a third successive Premier League win for the first time since Ruben Amorim took the reins last November, and will have to do so against one of their most prominent bogey teams of the previous few seasons.

Sustaining a defeat tonight would tarnish last week’s emphatic display at Anfield, which saw United claim their first win on their arch-rivals’ turf in nine-and-a-half years.

Whilst still a sensational feat – and one that fans won’t forget in a hurry – Amorim will be well aware that, in the grand scheme of things, it means very little unless he can actually build on it.

Amorim navigating injury concerns vs Seagulls

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In regard to the team he could field come 5.30pm, the coach might have to make do without trusted lieutenants Mason Mount and Harry Maguire, both of whom are doubts after picking up knocks last Sunday.

This could lead to Leny Yoro being restored to the backline in the potential absence of his senior counterpart, while Sesko may lead the line.

The Slovenian dropped to the bench for the clash on Merseyside, despite scoring in back-to-back matches in the build-up to the fixture.

Sesko, who signed in a £73.7 million deal from RB Leipzig in August, opened his account during the defeat to Brentford on September 27 before finding the back of the net in the subsequent win over Sunderland.

Whilst he was unable to add to his tally against Arne Slot’s side, he did impress with his general play throughout his 29-minute cameo, with analyst TMtalksball hailing him for his ‘relentless runs in behind’.

Merson: Amorim has to utilise Sesko

(Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Merson has also anticipated the young striker to start, writing in his Sportskeeda column: “Amorim made a bold decision to bench Benjamin Sesko in the game against Liverpool, and it paid off quite brilliantly for him.

“But I doubt he will do that again because, unlike Liverpool, Brighton may decide to sit back deep in this game.”

More Stories / Latest News

‘He needs to improve’: Amorim sends warning to £62m Man United star in build-up to Brighton clash

Oct 25 2025, 10:35

‘I’d be shocked’: Merson thinks it’s nailed-on that ‘relentless’ Man Utd star is restored to XI vs Brighton

Oct 25 2025, 7:20

Man United fan-favourite’s contract now confirmed to contain secret £56m release clause supporters knew nothing about

Oct 25 2025, 6:30