Antony has struggled to make an impact this season, with Manchester United fans cheering Erik ten Hag’s decision to substitute him during the narrow win over Fulham
Dimitar Berbatov has slammed struggling Manchester United star Antony and demanded he stop doing “stupid things”.
The Brazilian has endured a wretched season and is yet to register a goal in 11 appearances in all competitions this season. He was substituted off just after the hour mark in the narrow win over Fulham in United’s most recent outing, with fans cheering the decision as he departed the pitch.
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Antony has struggled to show why the Red Devils splurged £82million to sign him from Ajax last summer. And Berbatov believes that the attacker needs to step up his game if he is to keep his place in Erik ten Hag’s side.
“Erik ten Hag likes Antony; everybody knows that because they worked together at Ajax. It’s clear he has a soft spot for him because every coach is like this with certain players. Ten Hag is giving Antony his trust,” Berbatov told Betfair.
“Antony needs to know that every time he steps on the pitch, he needs to justify Ten Hag’s trust, work his socks off to show, ‘Yes boss, you’re trusting me, I don’t want to let you or the team down’.
“However, right now, it’s not working well for Antony, so my piece of advice would be to keep it simple, don’t overcomplicate stuff. The moment you start thinking you’re Ronaldinho or Zinedine Zidane while you’re struggling in games, you’re going to suffer even more.”
Antony has been urged to cut out the “stupid things” in his game amid his difficult season ( Image: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Berbatov also believes that Antony needs to cut out the tricks that have become a major part of his game. Instead the former United star called on him to use his pace to get in behind defences.
“Don’t try to do stupid things like tricks that are not beneficial for the team. You’re so quick, use your pace to get in-behind the defence, get on the ball and start to record assists or shoot to score,” Berbatov added.
“That’s how simple it is. Stay disciplined and concentrated – it’s not so difficult. I wouldn’t be surprised if Antony doesn’t play the next game, though, because everyone saw he wasn’t at his best against Fulham.
“So, let’s see what Ten Hag decides. There is a talent in Antony, but don’t overcomplicate stuff. When you build your confidence back, then you can start doing the complicated side of the game and showing your tricks.”
Boss Ten Hag has been defensive of the winger despite his struggles to live up to his massive price tag. The Dutchman insisted that Antony will soon come good as United look to rebuild their season.
He said: “He was out for a couple of weeks and that broke the rhythm. I think he had a very good pre-season when he scored I think twice in the pre-season. Then he had a break and now he has to get himself back in form. It is hard work and it will come.”
