The Big Interview - Michail Antonio

Michail Antonio has been waiting patiently for his chance in the first-team but could not have asked for a bigger platform to showcase his talents than Old Trafford on Saturday.


Antonio has been a regular member of the first-team squad following his big money move from Nottingham Forest during the summer, but has yet to start a Premier League game.


The 25-year-old was called into action after 37 minutes during the 0-0 draw against Manchester United after Victor Moses was forced to leave the field through injury.


Antonio quickly showed why he is rated so highly with an impressive display and will now be hoping to keep his place for the home game against Stoke on Saturday.

 


Michail, this was not a bad time for you to come on and play such a big part in the game at Old Trafford. Do you feel the team could have come away with all three points?


MA: “We could have definitely come away with a victory. We had some big chances with Victor Moses who was through on goal, we hit the woodwork twice and Zarate had a big chance in the second half.


“We could have taken all three points but we will settle for taking a point as Old Trafford which is a great stadium to play in and this will be a confidence boost for the rest of the season.”

 


We had so many influential players missing for the United game. Is there a belief in the dressing room that we can go to these big clubs and come away with a result?


MA: “Manchester United have got a great history and some great players. Some people will say this was a bonus game for us but we have gone out with nothing to lose.


“We wanted to see what we could take from the game and we are happy to come away with a point and move onto the next game.”

 


Victor Moses was forced to come off with an injury, but you seemed to relish coming on in front of a big crowd at Old Trafford and taking your chance in the first-team?


MA: “Victor has picked up an injury and it has given me the opportunity. I hope he has a fast recovery but I now have a great opportunity.


“Hopefully I can build on this and get better as the season goes on.”

 


You have had to be patient for you chance but how much do you want to establish yourself as a first-team regular?


MA: “We have got a few injuries in the position that I play. I have been patient for my chance but now I need to take it and keep my shirt.


“I need to take my opportunity and push on for the next game.”

 


Finally, we return to action at the Boleyn Ground this weekend. How much are the players keen to get back on the winning trail when we face Stoke on Saturday?


MA: “We have not won for a couple of games now and we need to get three points back on the board again.


“Even though we are picking up points in the league, we need to be picking up victories to help us move higher in the league.”