West Ham FC star Michail Antonio has been pictured for the first time after a horror crash which left him needing to undergo emergency surgery. The terrifying collision left the striker needing to be freed from his car and air lifted to hospital following the crash in Epping, Essex, on December 7.
The update was shared via his Instagram page accompanied by a picture of the 34-year-old smiling. He said that in 2024 he was grateful for life. The statement read: “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.
“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.
It continued: “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.
The striker was involved in a road traffic accident
(Image: Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
“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 team mates 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. Happy new year- and I’ll be back on that pitch soon.”
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