Man United winger Antony reveals he had to deal with a “really difficult moment” during the week

Manchester United’s £82million Antony has revealed he has recovered from a “really, really difficult moment” in midweek before scoring the opening goal in Friday’s FA Cup win over Everton at Old Trafford.

Antony scored in the fourth minute and put United on course for a 3-1 third round win after missing Tuesday’s Premier League game against Bournemouth. The official reason given was injury but the Brazil winger hinted it might have been something more personal as he thanked the club, coach Erik ten Hag and his team-mates for their support.

“First of all, it’s a feeling of joy,” the 22-year-old told TNT Sports. “I’m happy to score again, especially at home. I’ve set some goals for this season and it’s good to score once I start thinking about personal goals. But the most important thing, of course, is United’s qualification for the next level.

Man United’s Antony has revealed he had to deal with a “personal matter” this week

Antony returned to Man United’s line-up to score against Everton on Friday

“I’m also relieved as I’ve been in shock for the past few days, but I’d rather not comment on what happened. It was a personal matter, really tough, but I’m very grateful to God that he’s behind me now, grateful to the club, the players and the coach. Everyone stayed by my side.

“It was a really, really difficult moment for me days ago. But God was always on my side and I am also grateful to my family. I dedicate this goal to them, in moments like these you know who really loves you.

“That’s in the past now, I’m happy to score a goal and I hope to continue like this because this is a year of many successes and wins.

“That’s my frame of mind now. I am 100 per cent focused on honoring the fans and the club. We all know the greatness of this club and we want to get United back where they deserve.

Antony has thanked Erik ten Hag for his support during his ‘really difficult moment’

After following Ten Hag from Ajax to Old Trafford in the summer, Antony praised the Dutchman’s impact on his career after rising out of poverty in Inferninho, a slum on the outskirts of Osasco.

“I like Ten Hag very much, I have a lot of respect for him,” he added. “He knows me, who I am and how hard I work. He knows that I always give 100 percent, even when things don’t go well. He knows where I come from, my story, how I suffered growing up in a favela. It is very important to have his support.

“I’ve set myself goals, not just on the pitch. This includes resting, eating well, everything. It’s about being 100 percent on and off the pitch, especially on the mental side as she drives the rest.

“I really ask a lot of myself, no matter what people say about me. I only listen to the helpful feedback. The Premier League is absolutely different from any other league: intensity, calendar, many games – it’s a huge requirement. So I focus on being at the peak of my mental and physical health.