Benjamin Cesko to make Manchester United first-team debut against Grimsby in Carabao Cup second round; Gary Neville: 'A player of his value and promise shouldn't be left in the reserves'; Grimsby v Manchester United live on Sky Sports Football on Wednesday at 7pm; kick-off 8pm
Pictured: Benjamin Cesco has joined Manchester United from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2024 for £73.7m.
Benjamin Cesco could be set to start for Manchester United for the first time after manager Ruben Amorim revealed plans to include him in the League Cup against Grimsby, as reported on Sky Sports.
The Red Devils head into the second round of the League Cup against a League Two side looking to secure their first win of the season.
That leaves Amorim free to give £73.7m new signing Seshko a chance to make his mark after coming on as a substitute in defeats and draws against Arsenal and Fulham respectively.
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Pundit and former club captain Gary Neville insists the 22-year-old should start at Blundell Park ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Burnley.
On an episode of The Gary Neville Podcast, he noted: “Cesco, at the moment, is not showing optimal form or progress, to say the least.
“Amorim mentioned before the game that there was a high demand for his inclusion. Last week I suggested: 'Give him a chance from the start.'
“He needs to get him out against Grimsby and get a full game.”
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“He will probably have to come on against Burnley on Saturday to get him into the rhythm of the game because it is obvious he is lacking practice.
“We cannot allow a player with such value and potential to continue to be a substitute.
“The difficulty is that the manager wants to maintain balance but, as you can see after Cesko came on and Casemiro was replaced by Mount in midfield, the team lost control and Fulham had chances.”
Will Maina make his season debut amid transfer rumours?
Pictured: Kobby Mainu is attracting attention from Premier League and European clubs.
Midfielder Kobby Mainu is another candidate to make his debut this season.
The 20-year-old remained on the bench for the first two matches, fuelling speculation he could be leaving.
United are awaiting offers for Maine, although the club have no plans to part ways with the academy product, Sky Sports News reports.
Amorim stressed that the young player is competing for the position with captain Bruno Fernandes.
Onana to play amid interest in Lammens?
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A look back at Andre Onana's key moments at Manchester United.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana could also get playing time.
The Cameroonian returned to the squad for the match against Fulham after missing the first game due to injury.
Altay Bayindir retained his place in goal but Amorim hinted at rotation against Grimsby.
“We have three games this week,” he said. “We have a strong team and we will change the lineup to win.”
Asked about the lack of European competition, the coach replied: “For other clubs, this is normal. We were not ready for the Champions League and the Premier League at the same time.
It takes time to develop. Players need to fight for places – then the situation will change.”
“The cup matches will give everyone the opportunity to prove themselves.”
Competition for goal could intensify as Manchester United hold talks with Antwerp over Senna Lammens .
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Is Senne Lammens' move to Manchester United possible?
Sources have confirmed to Sky Sports News that a £17.3m deal is close but United will not overpay despite competition from Galatasaray .
The transfer is seen as a long-term investment given Onana's possible participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Höjlund at Amorim's disposal despite Napoli interest
Photo: Napoli actively pursuing Manchester United striker
Amorim have confirmed Rasmus Højlund is available for the Grimsby clash despite talks over his move.
Napoli are optimistic that a deal can be completed this week, with Højlund reportedly keen on Champions League action.
When asked about the Dane's possible start, the coach replied: “All the players are ready. We will choose the best lineup for victory.”
Mazraoui to miss game
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WATCH FREE: Fulham v Manchester United highlights
Defender Noussair Mazraoui continues to recover from a thigh injury and is not ready to return.
The 27-year-old Moroccan missed most of pre-season. “He may be back next week,” Amorim added. “We are doing extra training to minimise the risks.”
Sourse: skysports.com
