Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar has defended Manchester United's Antony following his trick against FC Sheriff in the Europa League.
The Brazilian winger was hounded for bringing out his signature move during United's 3-0 victory after he failed to find Casemiro with the subsequent pass.
Paul Scholes labelled the wide man "a clown", whilst Robbie Savage let his anger boil during live commentary for the game on BT Sport.
"Well that for me is ridiculous," Savage exclaimed. "Because he’s done that and then he puts the ball out of play.
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"Quite embarrassing actually, doing that with nobody near him.
"And then he puts the ball out of play. If I was the manager I would not be happy.
"And you can hear the crowd. They’re trying to win the game, moving the ball quickly, nobody near him, and he puts the ball out of play. Embarrassing."
It seemed strange that the standard Brazilian flair that we've seen so much from other players beforehand was crucified so much for United's wide man in mid-week, especially when his career at Old Trafford has started so well.
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The summer signing scored in each of his first three Premier League games for The Reds and has continued to perform well on the right side alongside Diogo Dalot.
Another Brazilian who knows what cheap criticism can feel like has come to the defence of his countryman, however.
Neymar — whether it be at Santos in Brazil, Barcelona in Spain, or PSG in France — has consistently come under scrutiny due to his nature to showcase his flair and ability on the pitch.
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He wrote a message to United forward Antony on Instagram.
Neymar's Instagram story read: "Keep it up, nothing changes! Up kid boldness and joy."
This followed Antony's own Instagram message, where he stated that he wouldn't change his way of playing despite the criticism.
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"We are known for our art and I won't stop doing what got me where I am," he wrote.
The pair have played alongside each other for their national side and could take to the field together next month in the World Cup.
Erik ten Hag explained that he wants Antony to continue to showcase his flair "as long as it is functional".
Topics: Manchester United, Europa League, Antony, Neymar, Paul Scholes, Robbie Savage, Sheriff Tiraspol
Cain Smith