ANTONY will be available for Manchester United’s Champions League clash with Galatasaray – despite the domestic abuse allegations hanging over his head.
The Brazil international 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.
And Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag has confirmed he will be considered for selection for tomorrow’s visit of the Turkish champions.
The Dutchman said in his pre-match press conference: “Antony will be in consideration but yesterday was his first time back in team training.
“We have a final training, then we’ll make a decision.”
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Antony, 23, hasn’t played since United’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last month.
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.
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.
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“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.”
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.
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“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: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
