Former Manchester United forward Louis Saha believes Antony must leave his ‘comfort zone’ if he is to succeed at Old Trafford.
The Reds have endured a difficult season so far with issues on and off the pitch, but it’s time to fix those problems and get our season on track ahead of the new year.
Jadon Sancho has been exiled from the squad and prior to the international break, Erik ten Hag had nine players ruled due to injury or illness. There were further concerns last night when Marcus Rashford and Andre Onana picked up knocks playing for their countries.
There has also been problems with the team. Across defence (because of injuries), the midfield and a lack of goalscoring output up front – particularly on the right flank. It doesn’t help that Antony has been ineffective since his transfer from Ajax a year ago but Ten Hag does not sounds like the type of manager that will give up on the Brazilian so quickly.
It was hoped that Antony would find his feet this term, however, he’s barely improved.
The Brazil international is still predictable on the flank, but the one bonus he gives us is his willingness to track back. Other than that I’m lost for answers.
Saha, who spent four years at Old Trafford between 2004 and 2008, is not convinced whether Antony has a long-term future at his former club. The Frenchman claims his only chance is to leave his ‘comfort zone’ and he credits fans for being patient with the tricky winger.
“I don’t know,” Saha told BetFred (via The Sun) when asked if Antony has a long-term future at United. “It was a really tough introduction to the Premier League for him.
“He was able to score a few goals, but now the defenders are aware of his game and read him very well. He has no joy because he’s predictable and as a striker, when a winger is cutting in and putting in a cross, they provide types of balls that are really hard to read and connect with.
“You need crosses that are hit with pace in between the defenders and the goalkeeper and that’s not what Antony is providing. Manchester United now have a striker that’s looking for those types of crosses but Antony isn’t offering those options. He needs to do the right things for the team, regardless of whether he likes to do them or not.
“I, like many other fans, have been really patient with Antony, but now he has to bring more diversity to his game and come out of his comfort zone. If he doesn’t come out of his comfort zone, then what he’s doing currently isn’t going to work for this team.”
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