"We played well and should have won," Fletcher said after the match. "The team had 30 shots, many clear-cut chances, and a goal disallowed that I still don't understand why. Nevertheless, the performance showed many positive signs."

Coach Darren Fletcher applauds fans after Manchester United's 2-2 draw with Burnley in Premier League round 21 on 7/1. *Photo: PA Wire*

At Turf Moor on 7/1, Manchester United conceded early from a 19-year-old defender Ayden Heaven's own goal. The "Red Devils" then surged forward but lacked luck, as shots from Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu were blocked on the goal line, and Lisandro Martinez's controversial goal was denied.

In the second half, Benjamin Sesko shone with a quick brace, bringing his Premier League tally to 4 goals and giving Manchester United a 2-1 lead. However, the Red Devils could not hold onto their advantage, allowing Jaidon Anthony to score in the 66th minute.

Fletcher revealed he had a private conversation with Sesko before the match, believing the Slovenian striker needed a mental boost after a period of pressure.

"I sat with him, showed him videos of his movement, and emphasized that opportunities would come if he kept believing in himself. Just keep making runs, and the goals will follow. Today, he played wonderfully; he could have even scored a hat-trick," the 41-year-old coach stated.

In the first match since Manchester United dismissed Ruben Amorim, coach Fletcher immediately switched to a four-defender system, using a 4-2-3-1 formation. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes returned from injury to start as the number 10. This allowed the away team to create significantly more chances than in previous matches. However, Manchester United still failed to secure three points due to wasted opportunities and defensive fragility.

"All season, we have conceded too easily. This is not just a tactical issue; it's about the team's collective defending. Sometimes you have to know how to win ugly," Fletcher emphasized.

Fletcher confirmed he would continue to manage Manchester United against Brighton in the FA Cup third round at Old Trafford on 11/1. The decision was made after discussions with chief executive Omar Berrada and football director Jason Wilcox.

Benjamin Sesko (left) scores the equalizer to make it 1-1. *Photo: Reuters*

Meanwhile, Sesko stated that his brace against Burnley gave him much-needed confidence, but the most important thing remains contributing to the team. "The two goals give me more confidence," the 22-year-old striker expressed. "The past period has been really difficult, but now I've done it, and I'm very happy I could help the team. That's the most important thing for me."

Sesko stressed that Manchester United needs to maintain their spirit and unity heading into the next phase of the season. "Now is the time for the whole team to stand together, to show that we can work and fight in any situation. The most important thing is to focus on the upcoming matches and training sessions," he shared.

Hong Duy (according to Manutd.com)