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‘100 per cent I will be back’ – Huge future vow from Michail Antonio as West Ham star continues recovery from horror car crash
- Collided with a tree in December 2024
- Airlifted to hospital and underwent surgery
- Determined to resume professional career
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Jamaica international was lucky to escape with his life after seeing his Ferrari FF collide with a tree in December 2024. He had to be cut from the wreckage of his vehicle before being airlifted to hospital and undergoing surgery on a lower leg fracture.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Questions were inevitably asked of whether the 34-year-old would ever play again. There were early suggestions that it would take at least 12 months for Antonio to make a full recovery and put himself in a position to resume his professional career.
WHAT MICHAIL ANTONIO SAID
Antonio is convinced that he will figure in another competitive fixture, telling BBC Morning Live: “I’m 100 per cent I will be back on the pitch. This is what I focus on, this is why I’m in six days a week. Mentally, I believe so too because I never give up. I’m always focused, I’m always pushing myself. This is just another setback and this is not going to stop me.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Antonio has already started a light training regime, while West Ham fans gave him a rousing reception when attending their recent Premier League clash with Newcastle. A lengthy rehabilitation programme still needs to be completed, but there is cause for optimism.
WHAT NEXT?
Hammers boss Graham Potter has refused to put a timescale on when Antonio could come back into contention, with no pressure being put on the experienced forward. His contract in east London is due to expire this summer, but a short-term extension has been speculated on.
