Erik ten Hag backs Manchester United flop to come good

Erik ten Hag has backed Manchester United struggler Antony to come good for the club, despite reports that he will be allowed to leave on loan this summer.

The 24-year-old was in terrible form last season, scoring just one Premier League goal in 29 appearances, with just 15 of those being in the starting XI as he fell out of favour under Ten Hag.

ESPN report that the Brazil international will be allowed to leave on loan this summer, if any club is willing to pay his £70,000-a-week wages.

That would be a remarkable downfall for a player who cost the Red Devils around £82m just two years ago when he signed from Ajax.

However, Ten Hag says he still believes the winger has the quality to perform for Manchester United, while he distanced himself from the price Antony cost, saying he has nothing to do with transfer budgets.

‘I don’t go over the budget. I’ve never even had a budget. At United, the budgets lie with the owners and management,’ said Ten Hag.

‘He [Antony] certainly showed that potential in the first month: he scored three times in his first three games. After that it became more difficult, last season was not good. But I am still convinced that he has the potential to play at this club.’

Antony was not involved in the 2-0 friendly win over Rangers on Saturday, but Jadon Sancho started the game in Edinburgh.

The England international has returned from his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund and Ten Hag is keen to put their spat last season behind them.

‘We spoke well. Everyone can make a mistake. If the player reflects on this well, you draw a line and move on,’ said the Dutchman.

‘This club needs good players, and one thing is certain: Jadon Sancho is a very good player. I hope that we will still click and that he will contribute to our success.’

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