Michail Antonio seen for first time since horror crash as West Ham star breaks silence
West Ham forward Michail Antonio has been released from hospital as he continues his recovery from a car crash in December, and the 34-year-old has now shared a message
Michail Antonio has posted a touching thank you note as he was released from hospital as West Ham confirming the forward is home after three weeks.
The Hammers posted a statement from the striker, sharing his deep sense of gratitude in a heartfelt statement. He said: “Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive.”
He continued by expressing a newfound realization: “I want to take a moment to acknowledge something I’ve come to realise – I’ve spent so many years taking life for granted. I made plans for the next day, the next year, always assuming tomorrow was guaranteed. I’ve seen close friends pass away, witnessed others face near-death experiences, and even then, I didn’t fully grasp just how precious life is.
“What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. Life is fragile, and every single moment matters. I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here.”
Antonio has also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people who helped him reports the Mirror.. In a touching message, he said “To the emergency services, the NHS, The Air Ambulance, everyone at the Royal London and Cromwell Hospitals and everyone from top to bottom at West Ham United FC. The medical team, The board, all of the staff, my teammates and the amazing West Ham fans… I honestly could not have got through this without you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. To my loved ones who stood by my side throughout everything, I can’t express how much you mean to me.
“Lastly, to the whole football community, thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me. It has truly meant the world. I love you all and I am endlessly grateful for every one of you. ❤”.
Signing off with optimism for the future, he added: “Happy New Year – and I’ll be back on that pitch soon. Michail.”
Antonio, 34, found himself in a dire situation on December 7 after being involved in a car accident in Essex. He was flown to hospital and underwent surgery shortly thereafter.
The Jamaican international, who joined the Hammers in 2015 from Nottingham Forest, has been a stalwart for the club, clocking up over 300 appearances and netting 83 goals.
A pivotal figure in the squad, Antonio helped secure the Europa Conference League trophy in 2023. However, following his ordeal, he’s not expected to lace up his boots again until the season’s close, coinciding with the end of his current contract at the London Stadium.
