Erik ten Hag hands Antony advice after passionate Manchester United moment

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has handed Antony a piece of advice following a confrontation with Lewis Dunk during Manchester United’s 1-0 loss away against Brighton.

Manchester United, thanks to a 90+9th minute winning penalty by Alexis Mac Allister, left Brighton‘s Amex Stadium empty-handed as the club look to secure Champions League football for next season.

The penalty decision was not the only talking point of the fixture through, as tempers rose between United’s Antony and Brighton’s Lewis Dunk just before the 70-minute mark as the winger was alleged to have fouled the Brighton full-back.

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In a heated moment, both players can be seen shoving each other, with a small brawl ensuing. A video can be viewed below.

Speaking ahead of the West Ham fixture on Sunday, Erik ten Hag was asked about Antony’s passion, and how the manager is able to keep him focused on football.

“I think his passion is a strength,” Ten Hag replied. “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.”

Ten Hag explained that he advises Antony to make sure never to put the flame out completely, but just to make sure it doesn’t go “over the top”.

“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.”

When asked if he thinks the Brazilian is focused, Ten Hag replied: “Yes, I think his performance, his improvement, it is quite obvious and clear.”

Ten Hag was also asked if he feels confident about United’s top-four chances despite dropping points across multiple games in the last few weeks.

“I think we have had quite a good run so far,” he replied. “In our last five, we had four wins and a draw. We have everything in our hands. So, we have to focus on our performance. I trust my players, so I am quite convinced about it, yeah.”