'I'd embarrass him' - Martin Keown reveals how he would have dealt with Man Utd star Antony showboating

Martin Keown has described Antony's showboating against Sheriff Tiraspol as "over the top" and has revealed how he would have dealt with the Manchester United winger if he was still playing.

Antony received criticism after producing his trademark spin in Thursday's Europa League clash with Moldovan side Sheriff, which ended in a 3-0 win for the home side at Old Trafford.

With the match goalless heading towards half-time, Antony collected the ball in space and performed two spins to the delight of the home supporters.

But he then proceeded to play the ball straight out of play to the frustration of his manager Erik ten Hag.

BT Sport co-commentator Robbie Savage labelled Antony - who joined United in a £86m move from Ajax this summer - as "embarrassing", while former Red Devils midfielder Paul Scholes branded him a "clown".

Former Arsenal defender Keown, known for his no-nonsense approach on the pitch, says he would have attempted to "embarrass" Antony if he tried any tricks against him in a match.

"[Cristiano] Ronaldo was guilty of this himself, wasn't he? Lots of step-overs," Keown said on talkSPORT.

When asked if had an issue with it, Keown added: "Yeah I do. I always had a policy, whenever I saw a player waving his foot over the ball I use to go straight for the ball and just embarrass him.

"If the ball doesn't move, I'm tackling you.

"He's a new player at Manchester United. I do feel he's a good player, by the way, he's getting much sharper. I wasn't that impressed when I first saw him.

"But it's just over the top. It's showboating and I don't know why he needs to do it. He certainly won't be doing it again."

After the match, United boss Ten Hag said he would "correct" Antony over his showboating.

"I don't have a problem with tricks as long as it's functional," said the Dutchman, who also managed the Brazilian winger at Ajax.

"I demand more from him - more runs behind, more often in the box and more playing in the pocket.

“He certainly won’t be doing it again!” 😳

😡 “I used to have a policy where I’d go straight for the ball and embarrass them.”

Martin Keown shares how he dealt with showboating players like #MUFC’s Antony. pic.twitter.com/HGXJWx6lZm

— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) October 28, 2022

"When there is a trick like that, it's nice as long as it's functional. If you're not losing the ball, then it's OK - but if it's a trick because of a trick, then I will correct him."

Antony has made a promising start at United, scoring three goals in his first 11 appearances for the club.

He will hope to add to that tally when United face West Ham at Old Trafford in the Premier League on Sunday.