Rio Ferdinand (foto: Screenshot)
Rio Ferdinand praised Benjamin Šeško after Manchester United’s win over Crystal Palace, saying the Slovenian striker shows the movement and instinct of a true number nine.erzvezdnik Lamine Yamal je priznal, da zadnji tedni zanj niso bili iahki.
Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United may have rediscovered a traditional centre-forward in Benjamin Šeško, after the Slovenian’s latest decisive display against Crystal Palace.
United’s former defender first praised Bruno Fernandes following Sunday’s victory before turning his attention to the in-form striker, who has enjoyed a prolific run in recent weeks.
“That’s the movement of a real nine”
Ferdinand highlighted Fernandes’ influence before focusing on Šeško’s instincts inside the penalty area.
“Bruno Fernandes keeps delivering numbers. No matter where he plays or who the manager is. If times are good or bad, he always contributes. He took responsibility and converted the penalty when Manchester United were behind. Then he provided the assist to Mr. Šeško. What more can you say? The movement… That’s the movement of a real number nine.”
He continued: “In the first half, Bruno sent the ball forward into the box. Šeško was slightly out of position. He didn’t need to be told twice… The second time it worked. He wasn’t even the first option for that cross, and then he headed it in. But that movement… That’s a proper nine. That’s instinct.”
For Ferdinand, who played during United’s most successful modern era, the striker’s spatial awareness and timing evoke memories of the club’s past attacking standards.
Growing confidence and variety
Šeško’s development has also impressed with the variety of his finishing.
“In the first four or five games people were asking what he actually is. In the last matches… everyone sees a real number nine. He finishes in different ways, he gets above defenders. He started the match and scored. He’s confident. Can you imagine the pressure if he hadn’t scored?” Ferdinand added.
The 22-year-old has increasingly won over supporters and pundits alike, with his goals contributing directly to vital points during a demanding period of the season.
As United push for consistency and silverware, the emergence of a reliable focal point in attack could prove decisive — and if Ferdinand’s enthusiasm is any indication, Old Trafford may once again have a striker capable of carrying expectations.