Two Manchester United players singled out for “instrumental” moment vs Newport

BBC pundit Micah Richards has named three Manchester United players who he believes were instrumental in the club’s victory against Newport County

The Red Devils would push past surprisingly challenging opposition in Newport, to win the game 4-2. With goals coming from Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Antony, and Rasmus Hojlund.

It was two of those goalscorers in Antony and Fernandes that Richards was quick to praise for their performances in the game as well as the recently returned from injury Luke Shaw.

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“Bruno [Fernandes] was brilliant today,” Richards noted. “As well as Luke Shaw. They were both instrumental in that third goal.

“Luke Shaw was brilliant and they’ve needed him back in this side as soon as possible. It’s the quality in the final moments. Antony had a really good game today too.

United captain Fernandes’ goal has made him two for two in scoring in the FA Cup so far this season, having previously scored in United’s third-round tie against Wigan Athletic.

Meanwhile, Antony, whom Richards also praised, had possibly his best game for the club so far this season.

Forced to step up in the absence of Marcus Rashford, the goal and assist that the Brazillian forward picked up marked his first goal contributions in competitive action so far this campaign.

Antony had also scored earlier this week during a behind-closed-doors friendly loss to Burnley on Wednesday.

It had been reported earlier this week that Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag may be ready to part with both Antony, if the club were to receive a suitable offer.