ANTONY came on as a sub during Manchester United’s clash against Galatasaray – despite the domestic abuse allegations hanging over his head.
The Brazilian star was sent on to rescue United in the 85th minute after Mauro Icardi put Galatasaray 3-2 ahead.
There was no reaction from the crowd at Old Trafford as Antony entered the fray.
Antony has been accused of physical assault by an ex-girlfriend and was questioned by Greater Manchester Police for five hours last week.
The £85million signing was granted a leave of absence to address the allegations – which he vehemently denies – but returned to training on Sunday.
The former Ajax man has been accused of assault by his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, who claims he assaulted her when she was pregnant with his baby.
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Cavallin reacted to the news of Antony’s return to training in a statement via her legal team.
It read: “Gabriela Cavallin’s attorneys inform that the crimes committed by the player are still being investigated by the Manchester Police and also the Brazilian Police.
“Which is why we believe that he will soon be sent to court, where he will have to face a trial.
“It seems obvious to us that fallacies would be created with the intention that the team bringing him back to training.”
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Antony has repeatedly denied the allegations, which became public in June.
He wrote on Instagram: “Out of respect for my fans, friends and family, I feel obliged to speak out publicly about the false accusations that I have been a victim of.
“From the beginning, I have treated this matter with seriousness and respect, providing the necessary clarifications to the police.
“The investigation is under judicial secrecy, and therefore I cannot make its contents public.
“However, I can calmly say that the accusations are false, and that the current evidence and the ones yet to be produced demonstrate my innocence.”
Manchester United issued a statement on the ongoing investigation last week condemning all “acts of violence and abuse”.
It added: “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.”
United blundered their way to defeat on another sorry occasion at Old Trafford.
Rasmus Hojlund twice put the Red Devils ahead in the 17th and 67th minutes.
Former Red Wilfried Zaha had got one back on 23 minutes.
In the final 20 minutes though United completely lost their heads with Andre Onana all over the shop.
Kerem Arturkoglu plundered a 71st minute equaliser.
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Then Mauro Icardi, having just missed a penalty made amends with the 81st minute winner.
It was Galatasaray’s first ever win in England in 11 attempts and their first away win anywhere in the competition, apart from a qualifier, in a decade.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
