Erik ten Hag acknowledged Antony’s lapse in judgment for taunting Coventry City players following Manchester United‘s tense FA Cup victory through a penalty shootout, yet he contends that the Brazilian winger’s actions were a response to provocation.
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Antony faced widespread criticism for gesturing towards the Coventry squad after Rasmus Hojlund’s decisive penalty, which ended their cup aspirations following a dramatic 3-3 draw at Wembley.
Ten Hag stood by his £86 million signing, emphasizing the sportsmanship displayed by Harry Maguire and other United players towards their Championship opponents.
‘He (Antony) was provocated (provoked), that’s why this was a reaction of that,’ said Ten Hag. ‘You haven’t seen the provocation only the reaction. But he should not do it.
‘Did you see the reaction of Harry Maguire? I have seen Harry Maguire straight after and others.
‘We should acknowledge the performance of Coventry coming to that semi-final and the comeback.
‘We are for 70 minutes totally dominating the game by far, and 3-0 must have the game closed. But the return from their side was very good.’
United encountered challenges due to several injuries before and during the match, with Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Scott McTominay all exiting the field due to injury.
‘We had a problem with Garnacho, that’s why we took him off during the game but I think he will be fine,’ added Ten Hag.
‘We have to assess Scott McTominay today, he is really doubtful. Marcus Rashford is also doubtful and there was also an issue with Bruno Fernandes with the hand, but I think he can make it.
Rashford and McTominay’s availability for the upcoming Premier League fixture against Sheffield United remains uncertain.
However, Ten Hag remains hopeful that captain Bruno Fernandes will recover in time for the match, despite sustaining a hand injury in the encounter with Coventry.
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