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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Jonathan Gorrie

Manchester United news: Erik ten Hag defends ‘great player’ Antony after Brighton controversy

Erik ten Hag has defended Manchester United winger Antony ahead of Sunday’s trip to West Ham.

The Brazilian was involved in a confrontation with Brighton defender Lewis Dunk during Thursday’s dramatic loss on the south coast.

Antony also appeared to kick out at midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and was perhaps lucky to have only been booked.

Still, ahead of the trip to the London Stadium, ten Hag backed his big summer signing.

Asked about channelling the Brazil international’s passion, Ten Hag said: "Yeah, but I think his passion is his strength.

"Of course, until a certain level you have to control it. But you need passion and desire to win your games and to win battles in the game.

"It’s true, it’s very strong with him. He is very ambitious.

"As I say, don’t go over the top, stay focused on your game and what the game needs. If he is doing that, he is a great player.

"I think his performance, his improvement is quite obvious and clear."

In a major boost for United, Alejandro Garnacho could feature for the first time since March.

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