Ten Hag Reveals Why He Substituted 'Showboating' Star Antony In Manchester United's 3-0 Win

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has said he will "correct" Antony if he feels the Brazil winger is needlessly "showboating."

Antony moved from Ajax to Manchester United for $94 million on a five-year deal. He thoroughly entertained the Old Trafford crowd Thursday as his side won 3-0 over Sheriff Tiraspol in Europa League Group E. He produced a 720-degree spin with the ball stuck to his left foot. His next move was to knock it straight out for a Sheriff goal-kick.

In the half-time break, Ten Hag substituted Antony and replaced him with Marcus Rashford, who eventually scored the Red Devils' second goal of the match.

In a post-match interview after the game Thursday, when reporters asked Ten Hag if he substituted Antony because of his antics, the Dutch boss replied, "No. It was more or less planned if we were up. I wanted to see Marcus Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo close together and the dynamic on the right side."

"I don't have a problem with tricks as long as it's functional. I demand more from him - more runs behind, more often in the box, and more playing in the pocket," explained Ten Hag.

The boss' strategy did work as Ronaldo, who has not contributed much so far this season, finally scored for Manchester United. Last week, Ten Hag dropped Ronaldo from his squad for their trip to Chelsea after the Portuguese forward refused to come on as a substitute against Spurs.

Ten Hag, who also managed Antony at Ajax, went on to add that "when there is a trick like that, it's nice as long as it's functional. If you're not losing the ball, then it's OK - but if it's a trick because of a trick, then I will correct him."

The Brazilian striker has started all of Manchester United's eight games in a hectic October, playing full 90 minutes on all occasions except Thursday's match against Moldovan club Sheriff.

Antony has netted five goals and provided two assists in 14 appearances for the Old Trafford side in all competitions this season.

Manchester United's upcoming fixture is against West Ham in the Premier League on Sunday. With 20 points from 11 games, the Red Devils are placed sixth in the league table.