Manchester United returned to Champions League action with a 4-0 win over Azerbaijani champions Sabah FK at Old Trafford, though the bigger story was the impact of striker Benjamin Sesko, who started for the first time since March. His performance underlined how much more effective United look with him leading the line, offering a physical, direct threat that neither Matheus Cunha nor Bryan Mbeumo can replicate in that role, and giving head coach Michael Carrick food for thought ahead of Sunday's derby against Manchester City.

Sesko, 23, had been sidelined by a shin problem and had only managed substitute appearances against Hull, Ipswich and Everton before starting against Sabah, where he scored his second goal in as many games and has now netted 12 times in his last 21 outings for the club. Carrick praised the Slovenian's physicality and pace in behind, while suggesting he should now be favoured over Cunha up front, leaving a separate decision over whether Cunha or Marcus Rashford, still without a goal or assist since returning from his Barcelona loan, starts on the left.