Antony watched from the stands as Man Utd faced West HamCredit: https://www.instagram.com/antony00/?hl=en

When asked about the extent of the issue in his pre-match interview, Erik ten Hag acknowledged that the reason for Antony's absence was not related to his midweek spin maneuver- but because of injury.

"No, nothing [to do with that]", Ten Hag stated when asked if the spin was the reason Antony didn't play against West Ham on Sunday.

"He is injured. I hope it's not too bad, I think it's not too bad. In a couple of days he will be back."

In the opening period of last Thursday's 3-0 victory over Sheriff, the Brazilian spun through 360 degrees twice and then proceeded to misplace a pass that went directly out for a goal kick.

 Manchester United's Christian Eriksen talks with head coach Erik ten Hag as he prepares to come onto the field during the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022. AP

Several prominent pundits voiced strong opinions after witnessing the charade against Sheriff, with United legend Paul Scholes labelling Antony as a "clown" for performing the skill.

"I don't know what that skill achieves. Even before that, he did nothing in the game. I think he needs a more entertaining skill, "he said.

"When you're three of four-nil up, maybe. I don't know if that's skill or entertainment. That's being a clown."

" Fellow former United alumni Robbie Savage also lambasted the 720-degree carousel as "embarrassing" while commentating on the game.


showboating storm Antony Manchester United