Why former Manchester United striker claimed Antony would 'drive him mad'

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole believes Antony is failing to offer the two principal requirements of a Reds forward as his struggles continue.

The Brazil international has failed to find the net this term or provide an assist in nine outings in a frustrating season so far. He netted eight times last season but manager Erik ten Hag has kept faith with the 23-year-old and handed him a starting role in the Carabao Cup last-16 clash with Newcastle United on Wednesday night.

But Cole, who spent six trophy-laden years at United during his career, feels Antony is falling short of what is required at Old Trafford. The 52-year-old admitted he would be frustrated by the winger were he still playing and questioned what the former Ajax man is offering to the team just now.

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"He would drive me absolutely mad," said former United star Cole, speaking on Sky Sports. "He is an individual, we all know he is very left-footed. He is an individual that never goes to the right-hand side so if you are making a run to the near post you know you are never going to get it. He is going to check back and you are not sure when he is going to put it into the box.

"He doesn't score enough goals for me and he doesn't create enough chances for his teammates so you look at that and say 'What are you giving?' Because that is what you expect from him, you have spent a lot of money on him, the manager has backed him and I think he has found it really, really tough."