Antony's view on 'very important moment'
Antony has said that scoring in Manchester United’s 4-3 Emirates FA Cup victory over Liverpool was a hugely important moment for him.
The 24-year-old was introduced to the game as a second-half substitute, with Erik ten Hag’s side trailing 2-1 and the visitors well in control.
There were just three minutes of normal time left on the clock when Antony swivelled in the box and found the bottom corner with his right foot, a goal which levelled the scores at 2-2 and forced a breathless 30 minutes of extra-time.
It was the first goal at Old Trafford for Antony for over a year and a clear boon for our no.21, who was a lively presence for United throughout his time on the pitch, first as a traditional winger before finishing the game out of position at left-back.
“It was a very important goal, it gave us the chance to go to extra-time and try to win,” the Brazilian said after the game.
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“Personally, it was a very important moment for me, I needed that goal. At no point did I stop thinking about it and working.
“It's games like this that show our values and I believe this will motivate everyone for the season. It was a game that we had to help in every way and I managed to score the equaliser.
“I have also been training my right leg, to make it better and I have done my best to help in the defence, acting as a winger.
“It was a time for everyone to donate, whatever their position. We came together there and achieved an incredible turnaround.”
Antony admitted that he has not had the easiest time this season, his second campaign in England since joining from Ajax.
The former Sao Paulo man clearly gives his all for the badge though – as evidenced in his visceral goal celebration – and he reiterated his desire to develop and be a success at United.
“It has been a period of a lot of learning. I try to learn from each criticism, understand where I can improve,” he added.
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“I have been working silently to evolve and show my football on the field. I know my potential and I know why Manchester United hired me. I want to repay all of this on the field.
“My team-mates are giving me a lot of confidence, my family too. This is important and gives me a lot of confidence.
“In the opportunity the coach gave me, I managed to be decisive and help. I'm grateful to Manchester United, it was my lifelong dream to be here.”