Manchester United are aiming for a fourth straight win in the Premier League on Sunday as they welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford, who have won all of their five games so far.
United were comfortable in their 1-0 win over Leicester earlier this week and although Antony had signed before then, he was not registered in time to feature against the Foxes.
The 22-year-old is, however, starting Sunday’s mouthwatering clash against Arsenal as he replaces Anthony Elanga in the side. Another Brazilian, Casemiro, will have to wait for his first start of the season.
Casemiro came off the bench in both of United’s wins over Southampton and Leicester but was once again named on the bench against Arsenal. The manager has now explained the decision, insisting that the 30-year-old needs time to adapt.
Read more: Antony makes debut: confirmed Man United line-up vs Arsenal
“He is new in the team, he has to adapt to the team,” Ten Hag is quoted as saying by BBC journalist Shamoon Hafez.
“He has to get used to my way of playing football. The other thing, Scott McTominay is playing really well.”
SN’s verdict…
United host Real Sociedad in the Europa League on Thursday and Ten Hag may look at that fixture and think it could be the perfect opportunity for Casemiro to be embedded.
It must also be said that McTominay has hardly put a foot wrong during United’s three-game winning streak and it would be harsh to drop him, even if it means temporarily leaving a player of Casemiro’s class on the bench.
BS!! Ten Hag is new to this team as well. It’s not like he’s been coaching united for years. It’s probably a language thing.