Reggae Boy Michail Antonio receives standing ovation on emotional West Ham return

Stevan Francis

13 hours ago

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Reggae Boyz and West Ham United striker Michail Antonio received a full standing ovation from the entire football stadium during an emotional return to the venue on Monday.

Antonio, 34, who came to show support for his team’s league game against Newcastle United, was introduced to the crowd before kick-off in what was his first visit to the London grounds since his major accident in December, which saw him ruled out for the remainder of the season with a broken leg.

An almost overwhelmed Antonio expressed gratitude to the fans as he absorbed the feeling of being back in the venue during a match atmosphere.

On Tuesday, he also took to social media to share his appreciation to fans and the club.

The forward has been a key figure in the Hammers’ success in recent times, including their first Europa Conference League title in 2023. He has also been an influential figure for the Reggae Boyz in their Gold Cup, World Cup and Nations League campaign push.

Antonio, who has expressed his desire to return to the pitch as soon as possible following his discharge from the hospital in January, has been undergoing a “warm weather rehab” training program in Dubai, which is said to be going extremely well.