Man Utd star Antony blames ‘very difficult’ domestic violence accusations for poor form last season

ANTONY says his battle to defend himself against accusations of domestic violence were behind his poor form for Manchester United last season.

He was accused of abuse by former partner Gabriela Cavallin.

GettyAntony has claimed he is ‘more focused’ this season without off-field distractions[/caption]

Two other women also came forward and accused Antony of assault, although one would later drop her allegations.

Antony has firmly denied all allegations against him and was given time off last September to fight them.

He remains under investigation in England and Brazil but has not been charged.

He never found his form last season as he started just 15 Premier League games, while he was left on the bench in the club’s victorious FA Cup Final.

Antony, 24, said: “I was obviously not satisfied with my season, but a lot happened over the year in my personal life.

“Like it or not everything I went through had an effect on the pitch.

“Definitely, everything I went through was very difficult for me and all my family.

“I’ve learnt from it all, I’ve grown and matured. I believe I learnt a lot from the adversity.”

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Antony believes he has now put that period of his life behind him and regained his focus for the coming season.

He said: “What I went through last season was very difficult and I feel a lot less burdened and more prepared as well.

“I’m a lot more focused.”

The Brazilian registered three goals in his 38 appearances across all competitions last term, a dismal return when put into the context of his £85.5m transfer fee.

But with his new focus he has a chance to redeem himself this season – starting with tomorrow’s curtain raiser at Wembley.

United take on neighbours Man City under the arch and will be hoping for a repeat of their FA Cup heroics three months ago.