Ten Hag insists Antony’s domestic abuse allegations no ‘distraction’ for Man Utd
Erik ten Hag has insisted Antony’s ongoing domestic abuse allegations will not be a “distraction” to Manchester United.
Antony was placed on a leave of absence by United after being accused of assault by three different women. He returned to the UK from his native Brazil on Monday, having cooperated with investigators in South America.
The £85million winger spoke to Greater Manchester Police on Thursday for five hours over the alleged assault of his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin. He has not been arrested or charged in either Brazil or the UK – and made his return to United training on Saturday.
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He has spoken to Ten Hag since rejoining the squad ahead of Saturday’s game against Crystal Palace. But the Dutchman revealed the Premier League fixture at Old Trafford will come too soon for Antony.
Ten Hag said: “I’ve spoken to him but that doesn’t give the impression how he is — how his mental status is. I can’t tell at this moment, first he has to be back.”
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United released a statement confirming the 23-year-old’s return just over two hours before Ten Hag faced the media to preview the match against Palace. "We make the statement, so I refer to the statement," Ten Hag added.
"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.
"On Saturday, he will be back in the training. I have to see (how fit he is), but I think, yeah (he's fit)."
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Antony, who has not played for the club since their 3-1 defeat at Arsenal on September 3, had denied all the allegations against him in a tearful TV interview. He also released a statement, which read: “I have agreed with Manchester United to take a period of absence while I address the allegations made against me.
"This was a mutual decision to avoid distraction to my team-mates and unnecessary controversy for the club. I want to reiterate my innocence of the things I have been accused of, and I will fully cooperate with the police to help them reach the truth. I look forward to returning to play as soon as possible."
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