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10th December 2024
09:40am GMT
Michail Antonio was said to be in good spirits as he spoke to his teammates before their 2-1 win over Wolves on Monday night in the Premier League.
Antonio remains in hospital after suffering a horror crash in his Ferrari on Saturday which required him to be airlifted to hospital.
West Ham confirmed he had undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture on Sunday.
During the game, his teammates paid tribute to their star striker by walking out wearing his shirt, while the crowd applauded in the ninth minute.
After Tomas Soucek grabbed the opening goal he held up nine fingers, his teammates' shirt number while after Bowen put the Hammers back in front later on in the game, he held Antonio's shirt aloft in celebration.
Soucek later revealed that they had spoken to Antonio on a video call ahead of kick-off.
He said: "It was for him. I dedicate it to him. I really wanted to score today, he’s my favourite since I came here. It was tough for me to play without him.
"I am happy that he is feeling fine and he is supporting us. He’s really in our hearts. It was really tough. I was with the kids and I saw the info on my phone, I messaged everyone I could to see how he is. I wished him all the best but I was so scared.
"It was a really tough few days and even more for him and his family. We also saw him before the game, we had a video call before the game. I was so happy, he smiled and he gave us all the best. I was so happy. I can’t wait to visit him.
"He’s a lovely guy and funny so he even made a few jokes. He wished us all the best. He’s one of our best-ever players, I can’t wait to visit him. Hopefully, he will be back with us soon."
West Ham are planning to get the whole squad to sign the Antonio shirts they wore prior to kick-off and auction them off to raise money for the NHS and Air Ambulance.
The club have vowed to match the total raised from the auction.
Jarrod Bowen told Sky Sports before the game: "Everyone loves Mic, he is a big character and waiting for news on the Saturday was difficult. He is not just a team-mate, he is a friend and has been for many years – a dad as well, to beautiful children.
"I just want to say thank you for all the support from everyone. As captain, I’ve seen all the messages and support Mic has got. It is one of those things where life is bigger than football.
"The main thing is Mic is safe and well and he is here to tell the story. He is a warrior and a fighter, he always has been, through his career and I know he will be back stronger for this."
Antonio joined the Hammers in 2015 and was an integral part of the team that won the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League trophy - the team's first trophy in 43 years.
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