One of the solutions he suggested concerned the need for consequences at Old Trafford. This referred largely to how certain players are allowed to “get away” with poor performances as they will be picked the following week regardless.
MEN Sport understands this is a matter that has irked some members of the dressing room as they perceive Erik ten Hag to have &aposfavourites&apos in the squad. While the Dutchman will argue he treats all players as equals, sometimes managers must make decisions to prove this further.
When United travel to FC Copenhagen in midweek, Ten Hag must make a call that would help end concerns about favouritism – choosing to leave Antony out of the side. The Brazilian winger has struggled since arriving at Old Trafford but he is in a particularly sore spot at the moment.
Antony joined the club with many knowing full well he was suited to cutting in on his left foot. While Arjen Robben was used as a comparison, United fans have so far yet to see him live up to the comparison.
Instead, the 23-year-old has looked one dimensional and against Antonee Robinson at Craven Cottage he seemed to have exhausted all of his options. On very few occasions did it seem like Antony had the confidence to go beyond his man and his unhelpful knack of stopping momentum and allowing defenders to get back when he looked to be in the clear became a source of frustration for the travelling United faithful.
His substitution in the 63rd minute sparked a mixture of jeers and ironic cheers from supporters and said all it needed to about his current form. While Facundo Pellistri played just half an hour, he showed more glimpses of promise than his predecessor and in turn made a case for a start in Denmark.
Ten Hag must make the call to drop Antony out of the team in midweek in a move that should be mutually beneficial. United will have more strength on the flanks, Antony will receive a much-needed break from the spotlight and Ten Hag will have proven he doesn&apost give preferential treatment to players he has signed.
Ten Hag has little reason not to make the call.
