Erik ten Hag explains why Marcus Rashford gave penalty to Antony against Barnsley

Erik ten Hag praised Marcus Rashford for letting Antony take a penalty as Manchester United breezed past Barnsley in the Carabao Cup.

United won the match 7-0 with Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen all scoring twice, whilst Antony also got on the scoresheet after scoring from the spot.

Rashford’s brace means he has scored three goals in two games. There were clear signs that his confidence is growing and we could see an in-form Rashford this season, which would be a big boost for any team.

The England international opened the scoring with a brilliant strike and was also central in the second as it was his pass that set Antony away before he was found in the box by Gabriel Slonina.

Rashford decided to give the penalty to Antony rather than take it himself. The Brazilian made no mistake in front of goal, meaning we had another attacking player amongst the goalscorers.

In the build-up to the game, Ten Hag had warned Antony about his place in the team and what he needed to do to earn his spot. Last night’s goal should do him the world of good.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Ten Hag was pleased with the contribution from his attacking players and praised Rashford for letting Antony take the penalty.

“They are very ambitious, very hungry,” Ten Hag said in his post-match press conference, as quoted by The Metro.

“But they also give each other the ball, they want to give assists and give each other the opportunity to score a goal like with the penalty.

“Antony needs some confidence then Rashy gives the penalty to Antony which is good for the team when they are together.”

Rashford knows how difficult it came be to gain confidence when goals run dry. It looks like he has overcome that spell and is trying to help his team-mates to achieve the same feat.

No wonder Ten Hag looks happy.

Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.