Lee Sharpe thinks Antony might have started fewer games for Manchester United had Jadon Sancho been available.
Antony was signed for £84million from Ajax in the summer because Erik ten Hag wanted to strengthen his attacking options, but the Brazilian winger's progress has appeared to stall in recent weeks, despite a strong start after his arrival.
The 22-year-old scored against Arsenal, Manchester City and Everton in his first three appearances, but he's since failed to find the back of the net in the Premier League, while he's also been unable to provide a single assist in all competitions.
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It's widely agreed that it's been a mixed start for Antony in his first six months at Old Trafford, although Ten Hag was quick to defend his marquee signing earlier this week by insisting 'the team is better' for his presence on the right wing.
Speaking to the MEN on behalf of 888sport, Sharpe said of Antony: "I think he started off on fire, scoring a goal on his debut. Then he did that little piece of skill, that circle turn, which everyone noticed and thought 'what is he doing?'.
"But I think at the moment he looks a little bit lightweight, not quite up to speed, If I'm honest. He's obviously got a lot of ability on the ball but he seems to always want to come inside and have a shot and I think he needs to vary his game a little.
"He needs to get his head up, but I also think it will take time to adjust to the Premier League, the physicality and the pace of it, but he's certainly got the ability, although I think he's probably a little bit fortunate that Sancho has been out of the squad.
"I think he might have had a tougher time getting into the team if Sancho was flying. He's got potential but needs to work on it."
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