Antony to return to Manchester United squad

Antony will return to the Manchester United squad after being interviewed by Greater Manchester Police over allegations of assault made by a former girlfriend. The 23-year-old, who has denied the allegations, voluntarily attended a police interview in Cheshire on Thursday afternoon. The investigation is ongoing and Antony has not been arrested or charged by police in the UK or Brazil.

Antony embarked on a leave of absence on September 10 in order to address the allegations and he has missed United's past four games against Brighton, Bayern Munich, Burnley and Crystal Palace.

United sources say they will keep the situation under review while police inquiries continue. The club said in a statement: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has cooperated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he continues to do so.

ALSO READ: The making of Dan Gore at Manchester United

ALSO READ: Hojlund must do what six other players have failed to do

"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 will not be available for selection for the Premier League visit of Palace on Saturday but could return against Galatasaray in the Champions League on Tuesday or the home league fixture against Brentford next Saturday.

It is understood Antony has cooperated fully with the inquiries in both countries and has provided evidence