Antony was brought on in the 99th minute against Fulham (Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has defended winger Antony and says the Brazilian is ‘unstoppable’ when he’s on form.
The Dutchman brought Antony on in the 99th minute in United’s 2-1 defeat against Fulham on Saturday – with less than a minute left of play.
The 24-year-old joined United in a £85million deal from Ajax in 2022 and his displays during his debut campaign were acceptable, if unspectacular.
But Antony’s performances this term have been poor, with the Brazilian scoring just once and providing only one assist.
Omari Forson started ahead of Antony on Saturday, while Amad Diallo was introduced from the bench ahead of the Brazilian.
Reports earlier on Tuesday suggested United were ready to cut their losses on Antony and were prepared to accept a massive loss in terms of a potential transfer fee.
But Ten Hag has provided a strong defence of Antony, and says he is ‘unstoppable’ when in form.
Antony’s scored just once this term (Picture: Getty)
‘Antony – I backed him for a long time,’ said Ten Hag.
‘I know his abilities – great abilities. I know from the past he is unstoppable, no defender can stop him because he’s one of the quickest in the first 10 yards.
‘When he plays that game I’m sure he will perform, he is resilient, he is a character, and he will fight back.
‘I back him and he now has to wait for his chance and one he is there he has to pick it up.’
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United will look to bounce back from Saturday’s dismal defeat against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup tomorrow and Ten Hag accepts the competition now takes on additional importance.
‘When you are unbeaten for January and February, then you lose one game…Obviously it was a poor performance, poor defeat,’ he said.
‘We want to stay in every competition. That doesn’t change our approach, because that is for every match.’
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