Manchester United player Antony has responded to criticism he received after taunting the Coventry City players after their FA Cup semi-final win.
The Sky Blues came from three goals down with 20 minutes to go to level matters at the death and send the game to extra-time.
The Red Devils eventually came out on top in a penalty shootout to reach the final, where they will face Manchester City next month.
The Brazilian winger proceed to cup his ears in celebration in front of the Coventry players following the winning spot kick.
On Tuesday Antony said that his celebrations were in the heat of the moment after being “provoked” by a Coventry player.
“Coventry proved why they reached the semi-final,” Antony posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “We seeked this spot in the final for our fans and we achieved.
“The way our fans were treated by their player was not nice and I, in the heat of the moment, I’ve reacted to the provocations in a natural defence of my club!”
Antony’s post echoed comments made by Erik ten Hag during the Man United manager’s press conference on Tuesday, in which he claimed the player was provoked.
“He was and should not react like this,” the Dutchman said. “You have not seen the provocation, only the reaction, but he should not do it.
“I’ve also seen Harry Maguire. We should acknowledge the performance of Coventry, coming back at 70 minutes when we dominated the game.
“The game must be closed, but the return from their side was very good.”
