West Ham United forward Michail Antonio has undergone surgery for a lower limb fracture sustained in a car accident, the club has confirmed.
In a statement released today, the east London side revealed that Antonio, 34, is receiving hospital care and will remain under medical observation in the coming days.
“Everyone at the Club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and expresses sincere gratitude to the football community for the overwhelming support since yesterday’s news,” the statement read.
“We also extend heartfelt thanks to the emergency services and first responders who assisted Michail immediately after the incident, and to the medical team overseeing his recovery.”
The London-born footballer, who has earned over 20 caps for Jamaica and scored five international goals, has been instrumental to West Ham’s success in recent seasons.
With 68 goals in the Premier League, Antonio is the club’s all-time top scorer in the competition, surpassing Hammers legend Paolo Di Canio, who netted 47 times.
Support for Antonio has poured in from across the football world. Jamaica’s national team head coach, Steve McClaren, said, “On behalf of the entire group of players, support staff, and technical staff, I wish Michail a speedy recovery.”
Tributes also came from Antonio’s former Reading teammate, Jobi McAnuff, who posted three prayer emojis on Instagram alongside the message: “Thoughts and prayers to Michail and his family.”
Premier League clubs have rallied to send messages of support. Arsenal said: “Everyone at Arsenal sends their love, support, and well wishes to Michail, his family, and West Ham United.”
Chelsea added: “The thoughts of everyone at Chelsea FC are with Michail and his family.” Liverpool shared: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at LFC are with Michail and his family.”
Antonio remains a pivotal figure for the Hammers, and the football world will eagerly await updates on his recovery.
