Premier League ‘pantomime villain’ Neal Maupay has stated “not even he would” copy the actions of Manchester United’s Antony in the aftermath of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final penalty shoot-out against Coventry City.

The Sky Blues almost pulled off a daring result when coming back from three goals down against top-flight giants United at Wembley to take the last-four tie into extra-time. A 120th-minute strike from Victor Torp was then struck off by VAR, and Erik ten Hag’s team went on to win the deciding penalties.

But one of the major talking points came after Rasmus Hojlund’s telling kick. As he ran to celebrate the victory, team-mate Anthony turned towards his Championship opponents and cupped his ears.

It stood out as United’s celebrations were somewhat subdued, and in the aftermath the Brazilian has come under fire for the act. In one instance, former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor tweeted: “Antony cups his ears as he celebrates in front of Coventry players. Is this guy the most shameless flop ever to grace our beautiful league? Shame on you Antony you wouldn’t even start for Coventry you prat.”

Granted the dark arts and mockery are a part of football, but there are tasteful ways of doing it. That is at least how Brentford’s Maupay feels regarding the situation as he took to X on Tuesday morning to state: “Just for the record, not even I would do this.”

The 27-year-old has spent seven years in England, beginning his time with the Bees in the second tier before playing for Brighton and Everton in the Premier League. For the current campaign, he has rejoined his former club on loan.

Over this time Maupay has become known as a sort-of tongue-in-cheek villain himself, as he has displayed sound knowledge of rubbing defenders up the wrong way, backing himself and colleagues in on-field scuffles or more recently popping up with contributions on social media.

So take it from an expert – Antony may have crossed a line.

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