I don’t think Erik ten Hag could be putting more faith into new signing Antony, yet former Manchester United right-back Paul Parker thinks the manager “must be extremely upset” with the winger’s performances so far this season.
It seems like everyone is looking to jump on the bandwagon of slating United players after Sunday’s 7-0 defeat against Liverpool, even though it was a freak result. A lot of these so-called pundits seem to forgetting how far United have come this season: one cup won, in contention to win another two, and looking like a strong contender for a top four finish.
The Reds collapsed in the second half as Liverpool scored six goals.
Antony was one of the players picked out for criticism after the game — for not making the enough of an effort to track back.
Former United defender Paul Park has hit out at Antony for his lack of “final product” and for going missing in big matches.
Parker told Apostagolos: “Antony’s final product is horrible. He doesn’t cross, he doesn’t try to dribble anyone. He is always missing in games. It won’t be surprising if one day no one misses him anymore, given how often he disappears.
“He was really bad against Liverpool once again. He actually plays at the back and puts pressure on the guard, so he looks more like a defender, which surprises me because his qualities should be in attack.
“Ten Hag must be extremely upset with his performance. He signed the player to make the difference from day one, but Antony let him down. People keep talking about being patient with him. But he was extremely expensive.
“He was supposed to deliver results from day one at Old Trafford. Do you buy a million dollar house if it’s not good to live in right away?”
Parker continued: “The fans must be disappointed. He did not earn the right to receive the unconditional support of the fans. Of course, they will support him, I bet they will, but he also has to show some quality soon.”
It seems a lot of people are forgetting this is Antony’s first season in England. And, I strongly disagree that Ten Hag is upset or in any way disappointed in Antony. Another overreaction.
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It’s so pathetic these ex players addibghyo the pressures around footballers and managers. So you think do you Paul, well nobody is really interested in what you think, if ETH told you that says it, but don’t just write down what you think.