Antony certainly didn’t pull up any trees during his debut Man Utd season, netting four goals in 25 league matches. And any prayers for the 23-year-old to come on strong in his second campaign have so far gone unanswered.
In fact, 930 minutes of Premier League action has not seen Antony manage a single goal or assist. Maguire, meanwhile, registered his second assist of the season at Villa Park, despite having made four fewer appearances than the winger.
Maguire was named Player of the Match by Sky Sports after his cushioned header landed at Hojlund’s feet for the Dane to slot home, while Antony didn’t even make it onto the pitch.
The fact United’s often peripheral centre-back has set up two more goals than a winger that set the club back £84million reflects particularly poorly on Antony, whose productivity will have to increase if he is to avoid being frozen out by Erik ten Hag.
The Brazilian international’s only goal contributions in any competition this season, for either club or country, came in the 4-2 win over fourth-tier Newport County in the FA Cup last month.
McTominay explained after the game that he is content with being named as a substitute providing he can continue contributing from the bench.
“I feel like as long as I’m fit and healthy I can come onto the pitch and perform,” he told Sky Sports. “I don’t take it personally, I just want to come in and try and do the best I can for this. Long may it continue.”