Manchester United star Antony was substituted at half-time during the 3-0 victory over Sheriff after an ’embarrassing’ piece of showboating.
But manager Erik ten Hag insists the two things were not related despite promising to ‘correct’ the forward.
After the Europa League match ended in a draw, the Brazilian winger gave a signature double-spin on Old Trafford’s ball to the Moldovans.
Antony’s flashiness was futile as there was no opposition pressure and his pass for a goal-kick was thrown out of play.
United were chasing a goal and Ten Hag shook his head at the £86million summer signing in response.
Antony was then taken off at half-time, although Ten Hag later insisted this was ‘more or less’ pre-planned.
When asked if he took the 22-year-old off because of the skill, Ten Hag said: “No. It was planned more or less.
“I wanted to see Cristiano and Marcus Rashford closer together and I thought Garnacho was playing quite well.”
Nevertheless, the Dutchman vowed to ‘correct’ Antony, who he coached during his time as Ajax manager.
“I don’t have a problem with that as long as it’s functional,” Ten Hag added.
“We demand more from him, and when there is a trick like that, it’s nice as long as it’s functional.
“But that was a trick (for a trick’s sake) and I will correct him.”
Paul Scholes, Red Devils legend and a fiery critic of Antony, delivered a sharp verdict at half time.
Scholes said: “If I was at No.6, I know what I’d be doing.
“It’s just ridiculous, it’s showboating.
“He’s not beating a man, he’s not entertaining anybody, but that’s just the way he is.
“I saw him do it at Ajax as well and it’s the way he is, but he needs that knocking out of him.”
Reacting on commentary, BT Sport pundit Robbie Savage said: “That is ridiculous. He’s done that and then put the ball out of play. It was quite embarrassing.
“Doing that with nobody near him and then he puts the ball out of play. If I were the manager, I wouldn’t be happy.
“You are trying to win a game and move the ball quickly. Embarrassing.”
Savage added: “There was no one anywhere near… what is the point? To top it all, he then makes it his play.
“If I was the manager, I’d drag him off.”
