LONDON — Benjamin Sesko is in awe of “working machine” Casemiro and is picking up everything he can from the Manchester United fan favourite before his summer exit.
The 34-year-old has not tasted the highs he enjoyed at Real Madrid but has built a special bond with supporters, which has increased since it was confirmed in January that he would leave at the end of his deal.
“He’s a working machine,” the Slovenia striker said. “He’s experienced, what he’s putting on the pitch is unbelievable. You need someone like this.
United fans once again chanted for Casemiro to stay another season after he opened the scoring in Monday’s all-action, man-of-the-match display against Brentford.
Head coach Michael Carrick poured cold water on talk the Brazil international could stay after the 2-1 win and fellow goalscorer Sesko is absorbing as much as he can from the veteran midfielder.
“Unfortunately, he’s leaving but…we are pleased that we can manage him until the last minute in the game and we’re going to use him,” he added according to PA Media.
“The way you look at him, it’s very important, you know? And I think you can be stupid if you don’t look at him and try to be like him when it comes to the work-rate and stuff and I think everyone is pleased that he is here.
“Unfortunately, he leaves but, yeah, it’s important to keep him up like this.”
United face a tall order trying to replace Casemiro this summer, when captain Bruno Fernandes’ future is sure to be under the microscope once more.
The 31-year-old moved one away from equalling the Premier League record of assists in a single season by providing his 19th of the campaign when setting up Sesko, who said the skipper is “capable of everything”.
“You have to use him,” he said. “The way he’s playing, the way he’s understanding the game, it’s just outstanding and I’m really pleased that I can be part of the team being with him and using him is the most important.”
Carrick backed Fernandes to win individual awards after the Portuguese’s sparkling display against Brentford, which saw third-placed United move within touching distance of Champions League qualification.
