Roy Keane has praised Antony for being on the end of 'important moments' in the match after the winger notched a goal and an assist in Manchester United's 2-0 win at Nottingham Forest.
The Brazilian was central to a dominant performance from United at the City Ground, consistently creating danger for the Forest defence. A brilliant moment of skill allowed him to set up Diogo Dalot for the crucial second goal, but equally pleasing was the desire to get on the end of a rebound for the opener.
Anthony Martial did well to win possession before a darting run allowed Bruno Fernandes to play him through on goal. The Frenchman's goal was well saved by Keylor Navas, but his parry only found Antony, who showed desire to beat Renan Lodi and fumble in from close range.
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"It was vital - it’s vital to get them type of goals," Keane told Sky Sports of Antony's finish. "We were critical, I think Gary [Neville] on the commentary mentioned it, he’s got to get in there with hunger and desire. As skilful as he is, these are important moments. To get on the end of it and get a tap-in, important moment for him.
"We’ve seen the brilliance of him for the second goal, but doing the basics, following shots in, the players have got to do that because they’re big moments. Obviously it’s a brilliant piece of skill for the second goal."
Despite Antony playing a major role in both goals, it was midfield teammate Fernandes who took the Man of the Match award. The Portuguese international enjoyed the freedom of the City Ground to work his magic and will have counted himself unfortunate not to have had at least one goal.
"Brilliant. Brilliant player," Keane said of Fernandes. "He’ll be disappointed he didn’t score but the quality of his balls into the box, if you’re a striker it’s a dream. You make runs and he can pick you out. They gave him plenty of time today, he’s obviously got a good relationship with Eriksen and the players around him - I just think he’s pure quality.
"I know we criticised him before the game about when United don’t win football matches, but not many players could play that pass. He’s two steps ahead in terms of his quality and the picture he has of the football pitch, some of his passes and the movement, I think the guy is pure quality. He’ll be disappointed he hasn’t scored but great day for him. Very comfortable."
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