Michael Carrick is facing a tense wait over the fitness of his star striker Benjamin Sesko, with the Slovenian forward battling an injury ahead of Saturday's crucial trip to Sunderland.

Sesko was forced off at half-time during Manchester United's victory over Liverpool, replaced by Amad Diallo after picking up a knock. The concern is a bitter blow for Carrick, especially after the frontman had lit up Old Trafford with a stunning strike inside the opening 20 minutes—his 11th Premier League goal of the season.

That tally already surpasses Rasmus Højlund's best return of 10 league goals in a single campaign, underlining just how vital Sesko has become in his debut season. But while he joined his teammates in celebrating the full-time result, reports from Samuel Luckhurst suggest he was left "in some pain" following the first-half incident.

The trouble started when Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté barged Sesko off the pitch—a dangerous move given the drop between the turf and the advertising boards. The collision re-aggravated an existing shin problem, and Sesko was later seen "limping heavily" as he made his way to the bench for the second half.

Referee Darren England waved play on, much to Carrick and the home crowd's frustration, and Konaté escaped any disciplinary action for the shove.

Since Ruben Amorim's departure in January, no player has scored more goals than Sesko, making his potential absence a massive concern. Although United have already secured their Champions League qualification, Carrick will want to keep the momentum rolling—and that starts with having his main man fit for the trip to Wearside.

All eyes will be on the team sheet come Saturday.