EastEnders' Anthony Moon will leave Albert Square in a plot which will involve Derek Branning and a shady poker game, according to reports. Viewers will see the dramatic scenes unfold after Derek, played by Jamie Foreman, raises the stakes so high in the game that it has devastating consequences for Anthony - played by Matt Lapinskas - and his antiques shop The Emporium. And as a result he will be left with no choice but to leave Walford. The dramatic exit takes place after Anthony finds himself falling for Derek's daughter Alice, played by actress Jasmyn Banks, with his showdown with Derek arising as a result. And the storyline comes after the actor announced in May he would be leaving the soap - but added that he hoped the door could be left open for his return. Matt had previously hinted at the exit plot, telling Soaplife, "Joey manipulates Anthony into challenging Derek, which is a big mistake. "I can't give too much away, but I can tell you that after going up against Derek, Anthony has no choice but to leave the Square." The actor has been linked to both Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing On Ice since announcing he was leaving the soap.
