Antony makes 'I've found myself again' declaration amid incredible start to Real Betis loan spell - but bizarrely claims he 'also did very well' at Man Utd

After playing a key role in the opening goal on his Betis debut, the Brazil international has scored three times and set up another in his subsequent three appearances for the Spanish side, who he joined on loan from United in January for the rest of the season.

The 24-year-old's stunning start marks a tremendous upswing from the form he showed while at Old Trafford, where he managed just one goal - in a 7-0 Carabao Cup win against Barnsley - in all competitions in the first half of the current season. Nevertheless, the ex-Ajax star insists he deserves more credit for his performances at United.

"The most important thing is that I have found myself again. I am happy to be enjoying myself every day," he told AS. "Things go well when we are well, happy, content… In four games I scored three goals and gave an assist. I expected it and I didn't expect it. I have worked mentally and physically to get to this moment. I am very happy about that. I'm very happy. When I was in England, I kept working, mentally, physically, very well too. So, I was preparing for this moment and now, I'm very happy to be enjoying and living an incredible moment."

He added: "I was playing a little, but as you say, I was working hard every day. I needed to be happy with myself. The best version of being happy with myself now, of starting well, is very important to me. I am very grateful for everything, for the coach [Ruben Amorim] too, who spoke to me. So, I am very happy to be here, to be happy and enjoying every day. I have also done very well in Manchester; I won two titles, and I am very grateful. But when I say that here, I have found myself, happiness, the people are like us in Brazil. The sun helps a lot. I am very happy here. Every day I wake up with a smile and that is very important.”

Betis are within touching distance of reaching the last-16 of the Europa League, having beaten Gent 3-0 in the first leg of their play-off tie last week. The Spanish side host their Belgian opponents for the return fixture on Thursday, with Antony in line to start on the right wing once again.