Rio Ferdinand passionately defended Manchester United’s Benjamin Sesko, drawing a surprising parallel to a former Red Devil often underestimated: Louis Saha.
Sesko, acquired for a substantial fee, has shown flashes of potential with two goals and an assist in his initial Premier League appearances. However, some observers believe he hasn’t yet fully ignited the attack as anticipated.
Ferdinand vehemently disagreed with this assessment, recalling Saha’s unique and often overlooked contributions during his time at Old Trafford from 2004 to 2008, where he scored 28 goals in 86 appearances.
“You know who was like that?” Ferdinand posed, his voice laced with conviction. “Louis Saha. He wasn’t chasing the Golden Boot, but his value to the team was immense – a joke, almost, the things he did to elevate others.”
Saha’s impact wasn’t always measured in goals; it was in the subtle, crucial moments. He’d expertly hold possession, providing vital respite, or skillfully advance play, creating opportunities for teammates.
Ferdinand vividly remembered watching Saha and thinking, “Forget the goals. His all-round game… I was genuinely thrilled he was on our side.” He sees echoes of this selfless play in Sesko’s current performances.
While acknowledging the desire for more goals, Ferdinand has observed a growing appreciation from Sesko’s fellow players. They recognize the unseen benefits he brings to the team dynamic.
“Manchester United haven’t had a striker who can simply hold the ball up or flick it on for ages,” Ferdinand explained. “It’s a small thing, but incredibly effective.”
The comparison isn’t without its critics. Former United striker Teddy Sheringham recently suggested Sesko is too inexperienced for the demanding role, advocating for a proven goalscorer like Harry Kane.
Sheringham believes the pressure of leading the line for a club like Manchester United is too much for a young player to handle, citing the previous struggles of Rasmus Hojlund as a cautionary tale.
However, Ferdinand’s perspective highlights a different kind of value – the intangible qualities that can transform a team, even without a constant stream of goals. He believes Sesko possesses this rare ability.
Ferdinand’s insight suggests that judging a striker solely on goals can be misleading. Sometimes, the most valuable contributions are the ones that go unnoticed by the casual observer, but are deeply appreciated by those on the pitch.
Sesko’s ability to relieve pressure, create space, and link play could prove to be just as crucial as finding the back of the net, potentially unlocking a new dimension to Manchester United’s attack.
