Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has rejected criticism of Antony.
Saha insists Antony deserves a year to adjust to Premier League demands.
"Antony is already a very good player, people forget the Premier League is the toughest to adapt to," Saha told DAZN Bet. "People think physically, technically and because of the price tag, he could do better. But technically and physically he's very strong. He defends when we need it, he goes both ways.
"This is normal progress. You're going to get more confidence, he will understand opposition defences better. You connect all those things and I think he'll have a great season next campaign. People are demanding more because it's Man Utd and the price tag.
"I don't totally agree with this, I think he's showed he's capable of playing a lot of games. He's a strong runner, even if he's not the biggest. I think he's done well but he can show more, he can improve his diversity in the game. He can improve the way he surprises people, and work on his finishes in game. I think he's a great player."