Erik ten Hag wanted to sign Manchester United's perfect Michael Olise alternative

After starting the last three games on the bench, you would struggle to find a Manchester United supporter who would nominate Antony for a start at Wembley on Saturday.

Ahead of United's most important game of the season, the Brazilian has lost his place in the starting line-up to Amad. The Ivorian started for the third game running against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, strengthening his case to start the FA Cup final.

Antony, just as he did against Newcastle United four days earlier, remained glued to the bench at the Amex Stadium, meaning he played just 20 minutes of United's last three Premier League games. It was a miserable ending to a miserable second Premier League campaign.

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Signed from Ajax in September 2022 after being handpicked by Erik ten Hag, he was drafted in to strengthen United's right flank. He was expected to provide goals, creativity and a sprinkling of Brazilian brilliance.

His first season at the club resulted in him scoring eight goals and registering three assists. It was a tolerable return for a player acclimatising to a new country and a club of United's stature.

At the same time, however, there was an overriding feeling that he needed to step up this season, increase his attacking output and produce more consistency. However, just like United as a collective, he has regressed, highlighted by his return of just three goals and two assists.

He scored just one league goal in 29 appearances, which is a damning statistic for a winger who was signed for £85.5million to increase the quality of United's forward line.

Antony is one of seven signings made by Ten Hag that has