Antony spotted at Old Trafford for first time since returning to Man Utd

Antony has been spotted at Old Trafford for the first time since returning to the UK in the wake of domestic abuse allegations against him.

Manchester United gave the player a leave of absence on September 10 after he was accused of assault by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin. Antony returned to England from Brazil earlier this week before attending a voluntary interview with Greater Manchester Police on Thursday.

Antony has always denied the allegations against him and United confirmed on Friday that the winger will rejoin training and is available for selection. The 23-year-old wasn’t available to play in today’s Premier League game against Crystal Palace, but he did attend the game.

READ MORE: Three things Erik ten Hag got wrong as sorry Man Utd lose to Crystal Palace

READ MORE: Man Utd make Antony available for selection a day after being quizzed by police for 5 hours

The 23-year-old was pictured arriving at the ground. Ahead of the game, Erik ten Hag insisted Antony’s return to the group would not be a distraction.

The Dutchman said: “We make the statement, so I refer to the statement. I think everything has been made clear in the statement. No, I don’t think it’s a distraction. We focus on the games and he will do as well.”

Asked for details on his return, the Dutchman said: “On Saturday, he will be back in the training. I have to see [how fit he is], but I think, yeah [he’s fit].”

However, Antony watched a defeat as Joachim Anderson's stunning strike proved to be the only goal of the game at Old Trafford, leaving United down in ninth.

The statement Ten Hag was referring to read: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has co-operated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he continues to do so.

“As Antony’s employer, Manchester United has decided that he will resume training at Carrington, and be available for selection, while police inquiries proceed.

“This will be kept under review pending further developments in the case. As a club we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”

Source: Read Full Article