Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has insisted that he is "not surprised" that Antony and Marcus Rashford are making an impact out on loan.
In the months after his arrival at Old Trafford, it quickly became apparent that Amorim was formulating a plan for the short and long term, being prepared to omit high-profile names from his starting lineup and squad.
Antony and Rashford both fell into that bracket, with United's issues with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability regulations dictating that they were willing to accept loan proposals for the pair.
As it stands, both moves have proven to be a success, particularly in the case of Antony who has already contributed four goals and four assists from his 12 appearances for Real Betis.
Meanwhile, Rashford has chipped in with two strikes and four assists from 10 outings for Aston Villa, his two goals proving pivotal in his side's FA Cup win over Preston North End on Sunday afternoon.
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What has Amorim said on Antony, Rashford?
During a press conference on Monday, Amorim was specifically asked whether Rashford still has a future at Old Trafford if he can continue to make an impact in the West Midlands.
In response, United's boss suggested that the duo can be 'top players, if they want', seemingly leaving the door ajar to prove him wrong over the next two months.
The Portuguese is quoted by the club's official website as saying: "I know Rashford really well and everybody knows the talent that he has.
"So I already spoke about that. He's a top player, if he wants. So I'm not surprised. And like I said, it's the same with Antony, it's a good thing.
"We see our players doing well on loan in a different context. That can happen and it's a good sign for the club."
He added: "We are really happy for our players that are on loan doing well."
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Is there any way back for Antony, Rashford?
As it stands, it feels that Antony and Rashford will be fortunate to ever pull on a United shirt again.
Regardless of their recent form, United know that they can benefit from getting the pair off their books to significantly bolster their position with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability regulations.
While Betis do not have the option to sign Antony on a permanent basis, Villa are allegedly able to push through a £40m deal for Rashford should they so wish.
With Rashford an academy graduate and able to bring in pure profit on the books, there seems little chance of him being welcome back into the fold even if Villa snub the chance to sign him.
Antony holds a contract until 2027 and United are not in a position to offer an extension on his current terms. Therefore, the Brazil international will likely remain on the transfer list in the hope that offers arrive for his signature.
Darren Plant
