Antony starts Man Utd friendly as Red Devils face League One opposition
Anthony started a behind-closed-doors match for Manchester United as he builds up his fitness following his month-long absence.
The 23-year-old was given a leave of absence by the club last month to deal with assault allegations that the winger has always strongly denied. Antony returned to the UK from Brazil earlier this month and attended a voluntary interview with Greater Manchester Police, with United then confirming he would be available for selection again.
Having been in the stands for the home defeat to Crystal Palace, he came off the bench during the Champions League defeat to Galatasaray and the dramatic victory over Brentford. The next step is for Antony to start a competitive game and he got valuable minutes under his belt during a friendly with Barnsley.
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Played at the club’s Carrington training ground, United reportedly defeated the League One side 3-0, with a number of players who are lacking match action getting a start, including Antony and Donny van de Beek, according to the Manchester Evening News.
Antony could now be in a position to start United’s first league match after the international break against lowly Sheffield United. Manager Erik ten Hag has insisted Antony’s return to the squad will not be a distraction.
“We make the statement, so I refer to the statement,” Ten Hag said. “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.”
The club 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.”
Meanwhile, Van de Beek has played just 21 competitive minutes across two substitute appearances and hasn’t been named in United’s Champions League squad. The Dutchman was believed to be among the scorers against Barnsley.
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