Marcus Rashford likes Anthony in the competition despite the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen, but it’s Anthony Down’s form that really impresses to the Ten Hag.
Erik ten Hag was full of praise for the decision to award Anthony a penalty in the Carabao Cup defeat of Barsley.
The £86 million signing has not scored since April, but Rashford and Casemiro’s combination after winning a first-half penalty ensured Anthony could endure.
Marcus Rashford prepared to take the lead later on after Chelsea loanee Gabriel Slonina was fouled inside the area by Barnsley goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina.
Last night captain Casemiro was involved in making sure the ball ended up in his countryman’s hands as he coolly fired home from 12 yards to put United two up.
Casemiro can be seen pointing to former Ajax winger Anthony, who has finally been given the job.Ten Hag enjoyed a very positive night watching his charges work with each other.
On the form of some of his forwards, Ten Hag said: “They give each other chances to score goals.When Anthony needs a bit of confidence, like a penalty, Rashy gives Anthony the ball. It’s good in a team, they’re the same.”
It was a confidence-boosting night for United after beating Southampton on Saturday in the biggest victory of the Ten Hag’s reign.The Dutchman will be able to prove himself after making eight changes to his squad for the game, with Ten Hag set to manage his side’s minutes during the hectic schedule leading up to the October international break.
“We have a lot of games, so we have to play around and manage the team. We need all the players in the team. We are participating in 5 leagues.We want to win, but there are domestic competitions.” Ten Hag told Sky Sports.
Rashford added to his goal tally after opening his account for the 2024/25 campaign against Southampton at the weekend.