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Antony is now back available for Man United selection, according to Erik ten Hag.
On Friday, we covered news that stated Antony was set to return to training and make himself ready to play in Manchester United matches again, with a police inquiry ongoing.
Saturday’s game against Crystal Palace came a little too soon for the right-winger, who hadn’t been in first-team training for almost four weeks. Obviously, it’s tough to get thrown straight back into that situation, with the gaffer clearly keen on ensuring Antony was allowed time to get back into the swing of things.
I assumed there was a chance we wouldn’t see Antony until after the international break, which begins after the coming weekend of Premier League games. However, the Brazil international has clearly been keeping himself in good shape.
The boss has confirmed that the United player ‘will be in consideration’ for selection against Galatasaray tomorrow after his close to month-long absence.
Check out what the gaffer had to say in full here:
“Antony will be in consideration,” the boss told media, including ManUtd.com. “Yesterday was his first time in team training. We have a final training [session] and then we’ll make a decision. But he will be in consideration, yeah.
“I think the team news is probably [just that] Antony dos Santos can return.”
Honestly, this is exactly what the team needs. I know Antony may not show up regularly in the goals and assists category, but he falls perfectly in line with the way that Ten Hag likes to play the game. He works hard on both sides of the ball, knowing exactly where to position himself during any given situation.
His best strength is calmness in possession. It’s rare that Antony makes the wrong choice with the ball at feet, with a concerted effort placed on ball retention and ensuring his side remain in control of the match.
I know Facundo Pellistri is infinitely more exciting to watch, though entertainment doesn’t always result in winning. I firmly believe United’s best chance at winning games is with Antony on the right-hand side of the attack.
With that in mind, I genuinely think he’ll start tomorrow night.
Do you think Antony will start tomorrow? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
