'He's taking a while to settle in and warm up': Man United fans defend Antony after slow start to life at Old Trafford

Much was expected from Antony following the Brazilian's £80 million transfer to Manchester United from Ajax last summer.

However, the 23-year-old has struggled for consistency at Old Trafford, mixing decent displays with seemingly disappearing on the pitch.

However, Old Trafford supporters believe that Antony — who has already scored 9 goals this season — has what it takes to become a key player at the club.

Brightonian (via RedCafe): "Criticisms on here are hysterical. He's taking a while to settle in and warm up. He's mostly keeping his place, however, because while the goal/assist numbers and attacking confidence are still building towards the required level, he is delivering the other parts of his job diligently and effectively, and clearly following his manager's instructions."

Thiagoal: "I really like him and think he’ll become a major player for us! We are a much better team when he plays and gives us balance! Great goals too."

pacifictheme: "ETH clearly wants him to stay right for our shape. We play better when he plays. People have gone mad for that run Pellistri did but that chance Antony had and should have squared was just as good in terms of movement and is way more what eth is looking for with the way we play."

crossy1686: "He's taking time to settle in and he's infuriating at times but there's a good, raw player there. If nothing else his drive and determination will take him places, even if that's just to the level where his cut inside and shoot ability is unstoppable even if you know he's going to do it."

Marwood: "His season has been salvaged with these strikes. I think they've nearly all been important as well. Still think he's too rigidly stuck to the right. It's not working for him. And when he shifted to the left he could suddenly deliver a meaningful cross. A left footed winger crossing from the left works. Who knew?"

Dan_F: "I think he'll get better as we start moving away from a reliance on counter attacking long balls over the top. Goes without saying that he'll need to add some variety to his game over the next couple years if he wants to go to the top."