Manchester United legend, Paul Scholes had described Antony as being a “clown” after showboating during the first half of the Reds’ 3-0 win over Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League on Thursday night.

With the game goalless at halftime, the Brazilian who joined the Red Devils from Ajax on transfer deadline day at the very start of September, produced his trademark ‘Anturny’ move, where he drags the ball around on his left foot in a continuous circle.

Antony carelessly put the ball out of play in an attempt to release the pass for Diogo Dalot after a poorly judged pass.

Ten Hag replaced Antony with Marcus Rashford at the beginning of the second half. A decision the former Ajax coach hinted after the game that it was always his plan to withdraw the 22-year-old at the break.

“I don’t know what he’s doing. It’s just ridiculous. Scholes said on BT Sports after the first half of the game. “It’s showboating, just look at him (Ten Hag shaking his head), that sums it up what’s he thinking.”

“Is it his trademark? I think he needs a better one. He needs to find a more entertaining way. I don’t think this country likes to see that. Does any country, even Brazil?

Brazil don’t want to see that, do they? Ajax, in Holland, do they want to see that? “I like to see skill, but I just don’t think that is skill or entertainment. That is just being a clown, isn’t it?”

Manchester United won the game by 3-0. Goals from Diogo Dalot, Marcus Rashford and late goal from the returning Cristiano Ronaldo ensured Ten Hag’s side progressed from the group stage.

They will now visit Real Sociedad in their final group match looking to win by two goals to skip a play-off round and advance straight to the last 16.

Advertisement