Erik ten Hag has boldly claimed that one Manchester United star was a “threat all through” the Premier League match against Burnley at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Manchester United dropped Premier League points at home on the weekend, despite taking the lead late in the second half thanks to Antony.
Antony pounced on an opportunity after he intercepted Sander Berge’s reckless pass and the United star charged through the centre with the ball.
The 24-year-old winger was put under pressure from Sander Berge before Antony managed to fire a low left-footed strike into the bottom right corner of the net.
However, Antony’s best effort was left in vain after United squandered their 1-0 advantage after Andre Onana’s reckless challenge in his own box.
Andre Onana was deemed to have committed a foul by VAR and Burnley were awarded a penalty, with Zeki Amdouni scoring from the ensuing spot-kick.
United are now out of the top-four race and Erik ten Hag’s men won’t return to the Champions League next season after dropping costly points in recent weeks.
The Red Devils languish in sixth place with four league matches remaining, with Ten Hag’s long-term future shrouded in mystery amid a lacklustre season.
However, United could still end their season on a high note if they manage to beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley next month.
Ten Hag praises Man Utd star
Speaking after the Burnley match on the weekend, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag vented his frustration at his side blowing a 1-0 lead at Old Trafford.
Despite his disappointment at the result, the 54-year-old Dutchman showered Antony with praise for his overall performance against Burnley.
Antony scored for the first time in the Premier League this season after previously failing to find the back of the net in his last 26 league matches.
The United star has been under immense pressure since his move from Ajax in 2022, with the Red Devils splashing out a hefty initial fee of £81.3m to sign him.
However, Antony has struggled with consistency in the final third and has been met with heavy criticism, despite retaining the faith of United boss Ten Hag.
While he might have scored against Burnley, Antony’s overall performance at Old Trafford was underwhelming in parts and even frustrated fans with his display.
“He was a threat all through,” Ten Hag said, as per Manchester United’s official website.
“It wasn’t a surprise he scored a goal as he also had more chances before that to score a goal.
“Two or three times, with his runs and good movements in the box. He was there and we are pleased with his performance today.”
Ten Hag on Man Utd and Europe
Despite Champions League football being off the table, United could still return to football as part of the Europa League or Europa Conference League.
However, Ten Hag refused to entertain the idea that United could fail to reach European football entirely for the following season.
“I never give negative scenarios,” he said.
“We have two opportunities, one in the Premier League and the other one is we have the FA Cup final.
“The facts are we can’t get fourth position when we’re so far behind. Conceding penalties, very debatable, against Chelsea, Liverpool and today again, that is seven points.
“It’s too much, especially at this stage of the season.”