Shearer slams “same old” Man Utd star despite win over Nottingham Forest
Alan Shearer criticised Manchester United flop Antony for “not doing enough” against Nottingham Forest.
The Brazilian winger started in the Red Devils’ fifth round FA Cup victory - the first game he has played from the start in a month. While he did show brief glimpses of his ability, and hit the crossbar, he lasted just 72 minutes before becoming Erik ten Hag’s first substitution.
Having watched the game, Shearer was not left particularly convinced and claimed Antony should be contributing far more. He said: “He might be disappointed he’s coming off but he hasn’t done anywhere near enough to warrant staying on the pitch tonight.
“Same old, same old, get the ball, come inside, pass it to someone else or have a shot. It’s not enough when you cost that much money.”
Antony, an £86million signing from Ajax, has endured a very difficult second season at Old Trafford. In 27 appearances in all competitions, he has scored just once and provided a solitary assist - both of those coming in his previous FA Cup outing against Newport.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
Speaking ahead of the clash with Forest, Ten Hag fired a direct message to his under performing winger demanding improvement. He said: "Lately, he is in better form and we know in autumn he didn't have his best performances.
“But he has to fight back, show some resilience, he has to be determined to prove it, that he is the player for Manchester United, that he is capable of it. We have seen glimpses of it and he must do it consistently."
Should Man United cut their losses on Antony? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Antony endured another difficult evening for Man United (Getty Images)Should he not up his displays, Antony’s future at Man United could be in severe doubt. Reports claim that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is planning a major rebuild of the playing staff at Old Trafford this summer.
Up to 10 first-team stars could be jettisoned - including Antony. The Red Devils are apparently willing to listen to offers for him but are aware they might not be able to earn even half of the £86m they spent back on him.
Antony’s current contract at Old Trafford is set to run until the summer of 2027. In all, the 15-time Brazil international has made 71 appearances for the Red Devils and has scored on just nine occasions.
He will be hopeful of earning another opportunity in Man United’s next Premier League outing that comes against rivals Manchester City this weekend at the Etihad Stadium. The winger netted in the same fixture last season as Ten Hag’s men slumped to a miserable 6-3 defeat.
and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
