Big boost for Man Utd as injury to £86m summer signing declared 'not serious' - report
Manchester United are grappling with a wave of injury woes that are creating a mounting challenge for Erik ten Hag.
The Red Devils encountered another setback in midweek when Antony was stretchered off in the tense 1-1 Europa League draw with Fenerbahce.
He was spotted leaving the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium wearing a protective boot and using crutches.
United have confirmed that Antony suffered an ankle sprain and will miss Sunday’s clash with West Ham United.
Journalist Samuel Luckhurst has reported that while the exact length of his absence is still undetermined, the club are relieved that his injury is not serious.
Antony was disappointing in his 16-minute cameo against Fenerbahce. He completed only four accurate passes and failed to register a shot.
The winger has bagged merely one goal in five appearances this term.
After two disappointing seasons at Old Trafford, Antony has dropped down the pecking order.
Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are ahead of him.
To everyone’s surprise, Ten Hag brought Antony on before Diallo. This decision left many United supporters puzzled.
The manager clarified that he had to reward the 24-year-old for his ‘good training performances‘.
It is positive news that Antony’s injury is not severe. A manager always prefers having options to choose from rather than having a depleted squad.
United signed him in an eye-watering £86 million deal in 2022, with Ten Hag driving the transfer.
The Red Devils are still waiting to reap the rewards of that investment and are hopeful Antony will turn his career around in the coming weeks.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
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