Neymar defends Antony amid showboating criticism
Manchester United winger Antony has come in for criticism for his showboating, but Brazilian superstar Neymar has defended him.
The 22-year-old winger performed his trademark 360-degree drag-back spin move against Sheriff in the Europe League on Thursday.
Manchester United won the game with three goals but Antony’s showboating prompted a furious reaction online and from pundits.
Former United players Paul Scholes and Robbie Savage criticized Antony. Scholes even accused him of being a clown after the game. Savage was also branded the moment embarrassing during his commentary.
Antony later defended himself and insists he will not change his style of play.
He wrote on his Instagram:
"We are known for our art and I will not stop doing what brought me to where I am.”
And now Neymar has defended his international teammate and encouraged him to keep expressing himself.
Neymar wrote in an Instagram message:
"Keep it up, don't change anything. Go for it kid, daring and joy.”
Manchester United manager, Eric Ten Hag also insists he has no problem with tricks after the game against Sheriff.
“I don’t have a problem with tricks as long as it’s functional,”
Ten Hag said after the game.
“When there is a trick like that, it’s nice as long as it’s functional. If you’re not losing the ball, if you’re attracting players, then it’s OK - but if it’s a trick because of a trick, then I will correct him.”
Antony joined Manchester United from Ajax last summer in a €95 million deal. He has scored 3 goals so far for United.
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