Moment Antony celebrates with team-mates after red card is overturned

ANTONY celebrated with coaches and team-mates when he was told his red card had been overturned and he can play Real Madrid.

The Manchester United flop, 25, joined Real Betis on loan in January.

Antony was all smiles when he found out his red card was rescindedCredit: Real Betis

Antony's red card rescinded. — The winger received the good news from a first-team coachCredit: Real Betis

Soccer player tackled to the ground. — Antony saw red for this needless sliding tackle in injury timeCredit: LaLiga

But his stunning start – including three goals and two assists in six games – hit a stumbling block when he saw red on Sunday.

Antony controversially received his marching orders for a needless and cynical late sliding tackle in injury time during the 2-1 win over Getafe.

And that looked set to prompt a suspension – and crucially the Brazilian winger would miss Real Madrid’s visit to the Estadio Benito Villamarin on Saturday.

The game will have major implications on both the LaLiga title race and battle for European places.

Los Blancos are second but level on 54 points with leaders Barcelona while Betis sit seventh as one of three teams on 35 points.

And Antony’s absence at the weekend could have been hugely significant.

However, Betis appealed the red card, arguing the tackle was reckless but not dangerous or displaying serious foul play.

And the Spanish FA’s disciplinary committee agreed – and wiped out the sending off, thus making Antony available for Saturday’s crunch clash.

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Real Betis’ social media team captured the moment Antony heard the good news from first-team coach Alexis Trujillo alongside manager Manuel Pellegrini.

Antony hugged Trujillo then shook hands with various coaches and fellow players before sharing a joke with Pellegrini on the training pitch.

Antony shows his excitement as he joins Real Betis

The £85.5million man vowed to make the hassle and stress worthwhile.

He said: “I was always hoping. I’m very happy, very happy.

“I’m ready for Saturday’s game. I was just leaving training and someone from the staff told me and everyone is very happy now.

“I have to be focused. We know what we’re playing for in front of our fans.”

Playmaker Isco added: “Have they taken it off? Thank goodness.”

And ex-Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian joked: “Don’t throw yourself on the ground like that again or I’ll kill you.”