Sesko continued his encouraging start to life at United by finding the net for the second consecutive appearance. The Slovenia international had also scored in last Sunday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Everton.

Carrick was pleased to see Sesko back in the starting XI and said his physical qualities, pace and ability to run in behind defenders give United another option in attack.

"Definitely, he offers a different kind of threat," Carrick said. "That's the beauty of it - we know what Ben gives us.

"There's not many around that give you what Ben does in terms of physicality, playing on the last line and his speed to run in behind.

"It's great to have him back at this level after working to get his fitness back. A couple of goals, good minutes in him - we're really pleased with him."

United's attacking options have given Carrick plenty to consider, with Matheus Cunha also on the scoresheet against Sabah, while Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford have made strong starts to the season.

Carrick admitted selecting his front three is not easy, but believes competition for places will benefit the team over the course of the campaign.

"It's not an easy decision, but it's definitely one I prefer," he said. "It's fantastic that they're all in good form and have started so well."

The United head coach was also pleased with the performances of Patrick Dorgu and the young players who were introduced during the match.

Dorgu played an important role in the opening goal and caused Sabah problems throughout the game, while Harry Amass and Shea Lacey were given valuable minutes.

"I thought Pat played ever so well," Carrick said. "He was a big threat down that side of the pitch for us tonight. He created that first goal and looked really dangerous."

Carrick also highlighted the developing understanding between Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans in midfield.

Tielemans has settled quickly into the team, while Mainoo has provided consistency, giving United a promising partnership in the centre of the pitch.

"I think Youri has settled in well and I thought he was really good tonight again," Carrick said. "Kobbie's just been really consistent all the way through, so we've got really good options."

The 4-0 victory gave United an ideal start to their Champions League campaign, although Carrick knows much tougher challenges lie ahead.

He was particularly pleased with the clean sheet after United had conceded goals in their opening league matches.

"That's what we set out to achieve really – a good performance. Individually, collectively, from start to finish," Carrick said.

"A clean sheet, some goals and some good exciting football – a good night all round."

Despite the positive result, Carrick insisted United must continue improving and cannot afford to become carried away after one performance.

"Results-wise, it hasn't been the start we wanted, we wanted more points in the league," he said. "There's certainly things to improve on.

"We want to keep pushing and progressing. There's slightly different things happening in the team now that we didn't have last season, so that's really encouraging for me."

United now turn their attention back to the Premier League, with Manchester City visiting Old Trafford for Sunday's Manchester derby.

Orlando Pirates, Golden Arrows get ready for crunch clash Esigodini