Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has continued to look the other ways when choosing his preferred right winger.
In the club’s recent game against Fulham, the gaffer had the chance to play Antony over the injured Rasmus Hojlund.
However, the fans were surprised when they saw Omori Forson taking the role as a winger and playing alongside Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.
The Red Devils were on a run of five consecutive victories in the Premier League in 2024. However, they were unable to extend the run against Fulham.
Must Read: Three Talking Points From United’s 2-1 Loss Against Fulham
The Cottagers defeated the home side via Alex Iwobi’s 97th minute winner. Although the result was a surprising one, Antony’s exclusion was the talking point.
The gaffer had the chance to let the Brazilian play in the starting XI. However, he opted to play Forson and he allowed Antony to come off the bench very late in the game to replace Victor Lindelof.
Ten Hag was asked about this decision and whether Antony is not part of his plans. As quoted by the Metro, the Dutchman replied by saying:
“It was nothing to do with fitness. He is fit but we have many options on the right side where we lack in other positions due to injuries.”
“The form in Antony we all have seen and he has to step up. I see it in training but also other Omari and Amad Diallo and Garnacho deserve to play.”
Ten Hag’s decision to snub Antony makes sense
Man United have played well with the attacking trio of Rashford, Hojlund and Garnacho.
The results have gone their way and the players have a better understanding of each other’s strengths.
The attacking moves seem more dynamic and the team’s pace upfront has also improved. Antony was unable to provide such felixibilty in attack due to his poor pass selection.
He would rather waste a useful opportunity or put up a mediocre cross from the wings.
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We believe that the former Ajax player has fallen a long way since making the move to Old Trafford last summer.
The South American star has a lot to prove and he has to start doing it in training before making a name for himself in the starting XI.
In the current scenario, it looks very difficult for Antony to replace Garnacho or even Forson or Amad Diallo.
Garnacho has been in sublime form for the Red Devils. His partnership with Hojlund is a joy to watch and their contributions are vital for the club’s quest to grab a Champions League spot this season.
