Matheus Cunha: Carrick needs to consider making a change up top

London – Michael Carrick’s Manchester United left the London Stadium with a dramatic point after Benjamin Sesko’s stoppage-time equaliser against West Ham United, but the 1-1 result papered over growing concerns at the top end of the pitch.

Tuesday night’s draw, secured in trademark “Fergie time” fashion, extended United’s unbeaten run to five matches yet exposed the limitations of a squad being asked to compete on two fronts with limited depth. After four consecutive victories, United produced a blunt attacking display that leaves Carrick with a clear conundrum ahead of the trip to Everton in a fortnight.

Summer marquee signing Matheus Cunha bore the brunt of the criticism. Handed his third start of the campaign, the Brazilian was peripheral throughout his 69-minute outing. Opta-partner data provider Sofascore recorded zero shots, zero dribbles attempted, zero key passes and zero crosses from the 26-year-old. Off the ball he won only one of three ground duels, contributed one tackle and a solitary clearance.

The subdued showing explains why Carrick preferred Cunha as an impact substitute in his opening two fixtures, opting instead for teenage winger Patrick Dorgu from the first whistle. On the evidence of Tuesday, the interim boss may revert to that arrangement.

Cunha’s withdrawal on 69 minutes proved the turning point. Sesko’s introduction injected urgency into a listless front line; the Slovenian international registered two shots on target and calmly converted the 94th-minute leveller. It was his fifth goal in six appearances and his second under Carrick’s watch, each arriving from the bench.

Speaking to club media after the final whistle, Carrick praised his side’s resilience but stopped short of confirming his starting XI for Goodison Park. “We’ve got options,” he said. “Ben’s timing has been impeccable, but we’ll assess everyone.”

United supporters will hope that assessment leads to Sesko earning a maiden Premier League start at the expense of a misfiring Cunha. On current evidence, the decision appears a straightforward one.