Rio Ferdinand applauds 'audacity' of one Man Utd player vs Chelsea, he produced defining moment

Manchester United were dramatically beaten by Chelsea on Thursday night, but one player impressed Rio Ferdinand.

As it so often is with Manchester United, Stamford Bridge played host to a potential game-of-the-century contender against Chelsea.

Erik ten Hag’s side went 2-0 down in the opening 20 minutes before brilliance from Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes and Antony pulled it back to 3-2.

But late in added time, Chelsea scored twice to secure a 4-3 win and the three points, cruelly denying United a win.

But during the game at a happier point in time, Rio Ferdinand was left blown away by what he watched one player do.

Here is what he said…

Rio Ferdinand left blown away by quality moment

The former Old Trafford defender and club legend, Ferdinand, was really impressed by Antony for his role in the third United goal.

Speaking on TNT Sports during the game, Ferdinand applauded the Brazilian.

“Antony has just produced one of the balls of the season. The audacity to even take it on.”

He wasn’t the only one to be impressed, as Ally McCoist on commentary also praised Antony.

“Without a doubt. I thought Antony looked really bright. The finish is excellent, he’s brave, the goalkeeper comes out, and he just knocks it by him.

“Watch this, it’s all about the pass, is all about the pass for me, absolutely different class, it really is.”

It finally seems like Antony is starting to showcase his quality at United with his goal vs Liverpool and now this assist.

Antony was very impressive against Chelsea, and after a year and a half, he is finally beginning to show why he was signed in the first place.

Let’s take a look at his stats from the game, as per FotMob.

Antony quite clearly had Cucurella’s number and his work rate and off-the-ball game were a massive boost.

Ultimately, the defeat will cloud his display, but it’s another step in the correct direction for the Brazil international.