Anthony Elanga tipped to restart Antony in the Manchester derby
Paul Merson tips Anthony Elanga to restart Antony for Manchester United against Manchester City in the derby
Paul Merson has tipped Anthony Elanga to start Antony for Manchester United against Manchester City in the derby. The ex-Gunnner believes the Swedish international’s work rate can push him ahead of the Brazilian against the champions.
Elanga established himself in the Red Devils’ team last season. With other forwards failing to perform, the 20-year-old saw plenty of playing time.
Writes in his column
on Sportskeeda (h/t Manchester Evening News), Merson feels City’s bombardment full-backs will put pressure on United’s wings to track back. And the forward, who played for the Gunners between 1985 and 1997, feels Erik ten Hag will let Antony go.
“It will be a tough game for Manchester United’s frontline. I’m not sure if Ten Hag will play Antony from the start – there will be a lot of tracking with Joao Cancelo bombing forward.
“Manchester City will try to create overloads in the final third, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Elanga plays just to track Cancelo.”
The former Ajax winger reunited with the Dutch coach in Manchester. And Ten Hag have chosen to start the 22-year-old in every game since he signed.
Antony seems to be trusted by the Dutch manager. During their time together at the Amsterdam-based club, the two have enjoyed success, winning several league titles.
The 22-year-old started against Arsenal in the 3-1 win at Old Trafford. And the Brazilian repaid the faith by scoring the opening goal against the Gunners on his debut.
But before Antony’s arrival, Elanga was the one Ten Hag counted on. And the Swedish international entered the team ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Elanga was involved in the previous campaign 27 times for United, scoring three goals and providing two assists. While the 20-year-old didn’t have the best numbers, the Swedish international took energy to the side.
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But Antony seems to be Ten Hag’s preferred choice. And while City are a dangerous side, the Red Devils are also well on their way in the Premier League. Hopefully United get one over the Sky Blues on October 2nd.