Man Utd confirm return of Antony to first-team activities

Manchester United have announced that Antony will return to first-team training and is available for selection again.

The winger was granted time away from the club earlier this month following allegations of assault from three women.

Antony was allowed to return to his native Brazil but has since returned to England. He met with Greater Manchester Police to discuss the allegations against him earlier this week.

Man Utd have now confirmed that Antony will resume training at their Carrington base and can be selected for games by manager Erik ten Hag once again.

A club statement 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.”

Antony last played for Man Utd in their late 3-1 defeat at Arsenal on September 3.

The Red Devils were then beaten by Brighton & Hove Albion and Bayern Munich following the international break, but have since recorded back-to-back wins for the first time this season with victories against Burnley and Crystal Palace.

Having knocked them out of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, Man Utd welcome Palace back to Old Trafford in the Premier League on Saturday.

Ten Hag is expected to provide a further update on Antony during his press conference on Friday afternoon.