Lammens Set for United Glory as INEOS' Gamble on Young Keeper Pays Off

When INEOS opted to bring in a relatively obscure goalkeeper from Royal Antwerp for £18m rather than pursue Emiliano Martinez, eyebrows were raised across English football. But Senne Lammens has swiftly transformed that calculated punt into a masterstroke.

The 23-year-old has provided precisely what Manchester United needed: a commanding presence between the sticks who has already surpassed Andre Onana as the club's first-choice keeper. His composed display in Monday's 1-0 victory over Everton—complete with a clean sheet and several assured saves—suggested the Red Devils may have unearthed a genuine gem.

Lee Sharpe is convinced Lammens possesses the ingredients for genuine greatness at Old Trafford. Speaking to BetBrain, the United legend drew comparisons to the club's illustrious goalkeeping heritage.

"There's no reason Senne Lammens can't be at Manchester United for the next decade and join those legendary keepers the club have had in the past like Peter Schmeichel," Sharpe said.

"He'll only grow in experience, hopefully Champions League football next season can even further that. He's shown a real calmness and that's a reassurance to the defence and the rest of the team."

Sharpe acknowledged the initial surprise surrounding the transfer, particularly given the availability of Martinez, whom he rates as world-class. Yet the gamble appears thoroughly justified.

"It was a shock when he signed as everyone thought that it would be Emi Martinez coming in from Aston Villa," Sharpe explained. "I'd consider him as a world class goalkeeper, so for the club to sign a young, unknown goalkeeper at the time seemed a risk, but he's been fantastic since he joined."

The parallels Sharpe draws to Edwin van der Sar are particularly telling. Both share an unflappable temperament under pressure and an authority that commands their defence. Against Everton, Lammens' handling proved exceptional, and while corners remained chaotic, his dominance of the box provided crucial reassurance.

Sharpe also offered an optimistic assessment of Benjamin Sesko, backing the striker to cement the centre-forward role for years to come. Despite his recent upturn in form, the Belgian has occasionally been deployed as a substitute, a tag Sharpe believes undersells his potential.

"I can see Benjamin Sesko making the centre forward position at Manchester United his for years to come," Sharpe added. "He's got unbelievable ability and gets around the pitch well – he left James Tarkowski for dead for his goal!"

"He's got the aerial ability and the strength; he's got all the attributes but still may just be a little raw. I think he will be United's number nine for years to come."

Sharpe suggested the tactical setup increasingly favours Sesko's attributes, providing clearer opportunities as matches open up. He believes Michael Carrick's coaching staff are working to refine the striker's composure and hold-up play rather than viewing him as a long-term impact substitute.

"I think it's a harsh tag to give him the super sub and I don't think the manager and his staff see him as that long term; it's just the role he's playing at this moment in time."