West Ham's players will pay tribute to striker Michail Antonio before their crucial Premier League clash with Wolves on Monday.
This fixture is important for West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui and his opposite number Gary O'Neil, who are both feeling the heat from dissatisfied supporters after a string of poor results. But the game is now overshadowed by Saturday's events involving Antonio.
The forward will miss the game at the London Stadium as he recovers in the hospital following a serious car crash that led to him being trapped in his vehicle for almost an hour and subsequent surgery for a lower limb fracture. As a show of support, 'Antonio No. 9' shirts will be worn by the squad during their warm-up, and they'll step onto the pitch with his name emblazoned on their backs.
West Ham issues Michail Antonio statement to reveal injuries after horror car crash Michail Antonio involved in serious car crash as West Ham releases statementSigned versions of these warm-up tops and match shirts will then be auctioned to benefit the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity. The club expressed gratitude toward the first responders and health care workers who have been tending to Antonio post-accident.
"Everyone at the club would like to reiterate their heartfelt thanks to the first responders, emergency services, air ambulance staff and the NHS for the incredible support given to Michail in the wake of the accident," said West Ham.
The soccer world has rallied around Antonio following his harrowing ordeal on Saturday. The Premier League expressed its solidarity, stating: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Premier League are also with Antonio, his family, friends and all at West Ham."
In the wake of the accident, Antonio's former partner Debbie Whittle, mother to their four children, made a beeline from Manchester to be at his side. Essex Police is calling on anyone with information about the incident, which occurred in Theydon Bois near Epping Forest at approximately 12.50 p.m. on Saturday, to step forward.
