Michail Antonio Makes Emotional West Ham Return For The First Time Since Horror Car Crash

West Ham striker Michail Antonio made an emotional return to the London Stadium for the first time since breaking his leg in a horrific car crash back in December.

What Happened To Michail Antonio?

On December 7, 2024, West Ham and Jamaica striker Michail Antonio crashed his Ferrari and was left trapped in the vehicle for more than 45 minutes before being cut out by firefighters.

He was then airlifted to a central London hospital, where it was confirmed that he was in a stable condition and was ‘conscious and communicating’.

The Hammers later revealed that Antonio had suffered a broken leg and would need to undergo surgery.

Emotional Michail Antonio Makes London Stadium Return

Antonio, 34, after over three months away from the London Stadium, made his return to the ground prior to his side’s game against Newcastle on Monday, welcomed by a beautiful reception from both the home and away fans.

Supporters in the Bobby Moore Lower stand unfurled a crowd-funded banner with a photo of the forward draped in a Jamaica flag wearing a crown, accompanied with the caption ‘Michail Antonio – Our Number 9’.

An announcer at the London Stadium said over the tannoy: “Exactly 3 months ago we were all willing him on to recover as he lay in a hospital bed.

“Since then he has shown the strength, resilience, and character that typifies the man.

“And tonight he is reunited with his West Ham family.

“Please show your love and support for our all-time Premier League record goal scorer, our number 9.”

Prior to his injury, Antonio had registered one goal and one assist across 14 English top-flight appearances this term. There is currently no set timeline as to when he is expected to make his return to the field of play.

He has, however, been in light training in Dubai recently, and West Ham boss Graham Potter hasn’t ruled out the striker making his return before the 2024/25 campaign draws to a close.

“He’s recovering. He’s been in Dubai and it’s been good for him to get that work in.” Potter said.

“I wouldn’t want to put any time on [his return to playing] because it’s not fair on him.

“We just take it day-by-day and see.”