Sessegnon ‘on the right track’ after stunning hat-trick

SLAVISA JOKANOVIC says Fulham needed their extraordinary win at Sheffield United after a stunning hat-trick from Ryan Sessegnon inspired them to their first victory since September.

Sessegnon was the star of the show as Fulham ended a run of six matches without a win in what Jokanovic described as a “crazy game” at Bramall Lane.

Fulham led 3-2 at halftime and looked as if they had the result wrapped up when 17-year-old Sessegnon (right, top) scored his third to establish a 5-2 lead with 12 minutes left. But Sheffield United, who were looking to go top of the Championship, scored two late goals to set up a tense finish.

Jokanovic wished Fulham had made life easier for themselves but was pleased with the win, which keeps his side six points off the play-off places.

“It was a crazy game,” he said. “It was great entertainment for the supporters, a little bit less for us! We needed a victory after some games where we did not play at a good enough level. We must be satisfied with three points, and now we keep moving forward.”

Sessegnon enhanced his growing reputation with an amazing display but Jokanovic attempted to keep the focus off the left-sided player, who is wanted by a number of leading Premier League clubs and is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in English football.

He signed a new threeyear contract at Craven Cottage in June amid interest from Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United.

Chelsea and Manchester City have also been watching the player, who was part of the England side that won the European Under-19 Championship in July.

Sessegnon last night made his 50th senior appearance, despite only turning 17 in May.

Jokanovic said: “It is always the same question — Ryan, Ryan, Ryan.

“Ryan is growing up in the right direction, he is a young player with a clear head, he wants to improve and learn. He wants to be better in the future. We will try and support him, but he had the support of his teammates [last night].”