Alarming Antony statistic shows where he must improve quickly at Manchester United

Antony became Manchester United’s second-most expensive signing in the summer but has been off the mark so far in his Premier League contributions.

The winger spoke to club media on Friday about his tendency to shift the ball cut in on his left foot to find the far corner. “It’s something I work on a lot. It’s one of my trademarks and something which I always try to do,” he admitted.

It’s certainly worked in cup competitions and in Europe, scoring four goals in non-league matches including the winner against Barcelona in the Europa League. But it’s also clear that it’s become a sticking point in the Premier League.

READ MORE: Antony opens up on his trademark move

Antony started his Premier League career in emphatic fashion, scoring on his debut against Arsenal and then against Manchester City and Everton. He became the first-ever United player to net in his first three top-flight matches in the modern era.

However, it seems Premier League defenders have sussed out his trademark move, and there has been an alarming tail-off in production since. Antony has failed to score in the Premier League since October, six months ago - not the kind of output expected from an attacker who cost £85m. While often looking bright, the attacker is yet to provide a league assist.

The picture gets more concerning when compared with Jadon Sancho’s stats. Both players, 23 years old, have featured in 16 top-flight matches this season, albeit Antony has started two more. Sancho has four goals, one more than Antony. He also has a Premier League assist.

Additionally, according to fbref.com, Sancho has been more creative than Antony. The England winger has created an average of 4.23 chances per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season,