Antony reveals which Man Utd team-mate he considers 'more than a friend' after coming through nightmare period at Old Trafford

Antony scored only his second goal of the season against Liverpool in Manchester United's stunning FA Cup quarter-final victory, and has faced fierce criticism in recent months for both his performances on the pitch and his behaviour off it. The Brazil international is under investigation in both his homeland and England after being accused of assault by his former girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin. He has denied the allegations.

Making reference to his difficulties, Antony has hailed his team-mate Dalot, with whom he has developed a close bond. The Portugal international, he says, has been a pillar of support as he works through his personal issues and his poor form.

Speaking to United's official website, he said: "I'm very grateful to God and to a friend I talk to a lot.

"Diogo Dalot is more than a friend to me, he's a guy who helps me every day at the club. We have a phrase that we always say to each other: the patient guy is unbeatable.

"We always talk about it. So I'm very grateful to him for his advice, for the moments we had together talking. He's a guy who's helped me a lot."

United are due back in action next weekend against Brentford as they continue to attempt to close the gap on the Premier League's top four. Erik ten Hag's side are currently sixth, nine points behind fourth-placed Aston Villa with a game in hand, and Antony will hope to make a significant impact in the final weeks of the season to build on his improved showing against Liverpool.