Man Utd boss Ten Hag explains dropping Antony for Aston Villa clash

Ten Hag previews Man Utd's Premier League match against Aston Villa

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has shed light on his decision to name Antony on the bench for Sunday’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa. The Brazil international has been replaced by Marcel Sabitzer for the clash at Old Trafford. And victory would see the Red Devils take a giant step towards qualifying for the Champions League next season.

United line up with David De Gea in goal, behind a back four consisting of Diogo Dalot, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

In midfield, the Red Devils have gone with Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Sabitzer.

And, up top, Marcus Rashford plays down the middle with Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho either side of the 25-year-old.

Antony’s absence has, however, raised eyebrows with the United star a regular in the team following his blockbuster move from Ajax back in the summer.

And Ten Hag has now explained the absence of the Brazil international from his starting XI, saying: “He played a lot, so we have to protect him.

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