Roy Keane explains why he is surprised Antony has started for Manchester United vs Arsenal

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has admitted that he is surprised Erik ten Hag has thrown Antony straight into his starting line-up for this afternoon's clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old, who joined United on transfer deadline day from Dutch giants Ajax for £85.1million, has been drafted into the starting line-up for the visit of the Premier League table-toppers, replacing Anthony Elanga. The Brazilian's inclusion in the starting line-up is the only change that Ten Hag has opted to make following Thursday evening's 1-0 win over Leicester City.

Antony's inclusion in the team means that Jadon Sancho is expected to take up residency on the left-flank, with Marcus Rashford poised to start through the middle. It is a fluid and vibrant-looking front-three, meaning Ten Hag will be hoping to see the benefit of it.

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Ten Hag worked with Antony at Ajax and was determined to add him to his squad all summer. And that is why Keane understands why the Brazilian has been awarded his full debut within days of his arrival at the club, even if the former midfielder is slightly surprised that Ten Hag has opted to change a winning team.

"I think he's playing because he obviously knows the system, knows the manager and the manager knows the type of character [he is]," Keane told Sky Sports. "I'm surprised he's changed a winning team, but they paid that big money.

"He's come here to play and it's going to be great to watch him live. I think he knows how the manager wants him to play, so it is a straightforward decision from that point of view."