Erik ten Hag reveals honest thoughts on Marcus Rashford handing penalty duty to Antony in Man Utd's Carabao Cup rout of Barnsley after firing warning to struggling Brazilian

Ten Hag watched on as his side thumped Barnsley 7-0 on Tuesday evening to reach the Carabao Cup fourth round. Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen each scored braces, while Antony netted his first goal since April from the penalty spot.

The Brazilian winger has come under fierce criticism for his struggles on the pitch, and Ten Hag appeared to question his attitude this week when he said "players have to earn the right to play". Rashford's decision to hand him an early penalty should serve as a confidence boost for the 24-year-old, and Ten Hag later praised the England star for his generosity.

"They are very ambitious, very hungry," Ten Hag said after the win. "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 pen to Antony which is good for the team when they are together."

United will discover their fourth-round opponents on Wednesday, September 25. Before then, the Red Devils travel to Crystal Palace in pursuit of a third-straight win in all competitions.