Neymar throws his support behind under-fire Man United star Antony

Neymar has jumped to the defence of his Brazilian countryman Antony after the Manchester United winger came in for heavy criticism following his moment of showboating against Sheriff on Thursday.

United's South American star moved to Old Trafford in a record-breaking £86million move from Eredivisie champions Ajax, and has enjoyed a bright start to life in England, scoring three goals in six Premier League games.

However, he was given a sharp reality check after demonstrating his signature 720-degree spin move that was labelled as 'ridiculous' by BT Sport co-commentator Robbie Savage.

The 22-year-old creative wide-player was then slammed by United legend Paul Scholes who further scolded Antony, saying: 'This country, any country even Brazil. They don't want to see that do they?

'I like to see skills and entertainment, I just don't think it's skill or entertainment it's just being a clown.'

Antony was subbed off at half-time with United manager Erik ten Hag commenting after the game that he would 'correct' the ace.

The United star bit back, posting a picture on his Instagram story alongside the words, ‘We are known for our art and I will not stop doing what has brought me to where I am!’.

Joga Bonito - a saying made famous by Brazilian footballers - translates to 'The Beautiful Game', with skill artists down the years such as Ronaldinho capturing a new generation of football's imagination.

Brazil captain Neymar, who himself has been criticised for showboating and even once shown a yellow card for 'embarrassing' opposition players, has revealed his support for his national teammate's latest act.

Neymar's caption alongside a video of Antony's carousel move was captioned: ‘Keep it up, don’t change anything! Go for it boy! Boldness and joy.’

He follows Man United midfielder and fellow Brazilian Fred who also backed Antony, telling ESPN: ‘It’s very annoying that they want to say that.

‘I think it starts with us being Brazilians. Brazilians have quality in their blood. It’s always been that way since Pele, to have quality, to dribble, to score, to dance, to smile.

‘So I think people have to understand this aspect that we have. So it wasn’t offensive to anyone what he did.