West Ham United have confirmed that striker Michail Antonio was involved in a road traffic accident on Saturday.
The club released a statement on their official website: “West Ham United can confirm striker Michail Antonio has today been involved in a road traffic accident.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michail, his family and friends at this time. The club will issue an update in due course.”
Pictures have emerged on social media following the crash, which showed extensive damage to the vehicle. He had previously been involved in a car crash on Christmas Day in 2019.
Antonio has been a key figure for the Hammers over the years, earning cult hero status at the club. #
Despite his poor performances this season, he has been a mainstay in the first team, with Niclas Fullkrug struggling with injuries.
He has made 15 appearances in all competitions for West Ham during the campaign, scoring once.
The Jamaican international is West Ham’s all-time Premier League top goalscorer with 68 goals in the top flight.
The 34-year-old’s absence could significantly impact West Ham’s upcoming fixtures, starting with a crucial Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.
Manager Julen Lopetegui needs a win to save his job and would love to have all hands on deck, but the club will be hoping to hear some good news about his situation.
The club has not yet provided specific details about the extent of Antonio’s injuries or the circumstances surrounding the accident.
As news of the incident broke, messages of support poured in from fans, fellow players and the wider football community.