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"You have to perform in training" : Erik ten Hag comments on Antony despite great performance

Erik ten Hag spoke to the media and answered questions about whether Antony has guarenteed a spot in the team after a brilliant performance during midweek.

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Saatvik Oberoi
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Erik ten Hag and Antony
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The winger for Manchester United, Antony, had a good week and earned his first competitive start of the 2024–25 campaign. In midweek, Antony made his Manchester United debut against Barnsley, helping the team win 7-0.

Even though Antony netted the fewest goals of the three, his performance was nonetheless a positive step for United as their entire front three worked effectively together. Antony was never really going to be able to prevail over a League One team. His critics would only highlight the opponent's skill level if he performed well, and they would condemn him much more if he didn't.

Prior to the match, Erik ten Hag expressed his desire to see an upbeat mindset from Antony, and he thinks the Brazilian delivered. The former Ajax manager said, “I think every player should give those reactions. You have to train hard, you have to perform in training, you have to earn the right to play, and when the moment is your chance, you have to take them.”

Erik ten Hag was questioned about Antony during his press conference, and he is now getting ready for Manchester United's game against Crystal Palace this coming weekend. He expressed his satisfaction with the winger's response and gave him credit for setting a precedent for others.

“You have to contribute to a winning team” : Erik ten Hag

Adding Antony would mean benching Amad, who has been United's most reliable attacker so far this year. He produced six goalscoring opportunities during the weekend's victory over Southampton. Ten Hag alluded to his selection quandary, implying that Antony's performances makes his job more difficult, but he is unlikely to be persuaded otherwise. It will take time for Antony to regain his position; he must work at it gradually.

Erik ten Hag said, “But, yeah, the manager can only pick 11 players, and then I can only make five subs, so make sure you are with those 16 players for every game. And you do it by, on a consistent basis; perform. In training, and of course, that’s the most important, when the chance is there, you have to perform in a game. You have to contribute to a winning team.”

Antony Erik ten Hag Manchester United
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