Antony's energy is a strength

The winger, who followed Ten Hag from Ajax to Old Trafford in the summer, had an opportunity to open the scoring at the start of the game but fired narrowly wide. He worked tirelessly and down our right flank, but was denied a free-kick in the 70th minute when a dribble was halted.

As the play developed, he fouled Alexis Mac Allister, who would later convert the injury-time penalty at the death, and was then barged into by Seagulls skipper Lewis Dunk, with the pair squaring up. Fred ushered his fellow countryman away from the flashpoint but referee Andre Marriner dished out yellow cards to both Antony and Dunk for their actions.

Ever since his tough upbringing in Brazil, such desire has been fuelling the 23-year-old, who clearly gives his all and shows his emotions on the pitch.

It is something admired by Ten Hag, but the Reds manager admits the wide man needs to remain focused to continue his improvement, as he adapts to life in the Premier League this season.

“I think his passion is a strength," the boss told reporters, ahead of Sunday evening's game at West Ham United. "Of course, there is a certain level. You have to control it. You need passion and desire to win your games, and to win battles in the game.

"I think this is very strong with him, he is very ambitious.

"So, as I say, don't go over the top. Stay focused on your game and what the game needs. If he does that, he is a great player.

"I think his performance, his improvement, it is quite obvious and clear.”

Antony, who was replaced in the 76th minute by Jadon Sancho on the south coast, will hope to keep his place in the side for the test against David Moyes's Hammers, with the Reds needing to respond in order to begin a final push to retain a top-four place.