West Ham star Michail Antonio could be out for three months say sources close to the owners but there’s a silver lining.
West Ham have managed to get through the season so far without suffering any serious injuries.
But that came screeching to a halt this weekend after Michail Antonio suffered an injury with Jamaica.
As if it were not bad enough that West Ham and David Moyes continue to rely on soon-to-be 34-year-old Antonio having failed to replace Gianluca Scamacca.
Now West Ham star Antonio could be out for three months say sources close to the owners but there’s a silver lining.
Antonio could be out for three months say sources
According to Sean Whetstone, who counts vice-chair Karren Brady and co-owner David Sullivan among his contacts, Antonio has suffered ligament damage and could be out until near the end of February.
“Michail Antonio has suffered ligament damage while on international duty and could be out for three months perhaps depending on severity of (the) tear,” Whetstone said.
“FIFA’s club protection programme will compensate West Ham for his wages after the first month out.”
Claret and Hugh are also reporting the same worrying news.
With three attackers in the shape of Mohammed Kudus, Said Benrahma and Maxwel Cornet all likely to be at AFCON for five to six games between January and February this is seriously bad news for West Ham and Moyes.
But make no mistake this could actually be the wake-up call West Ham have long needed and at the perfect time.
But there’s a silver lining for Hammers
With the January transfer window opening in six weeks, West Ham – and Moyes – no have absolutely no excuse and nowhere to hide when it comes to signing a proper striker.
It is bordering on ludicrous that the Hammers went into another season with European football with ageing Antonio as their first choice striker.
So Moyes and the club have nobody but themselves to blame for this situation.
West Ham fans will accept nothing less than a quality signing in January.
Supporters will be hoping technical director Tim Steidten lives up to his nickname ‘the pearl diver’ to unearth a January gem.
It may not feel like it right now, but this is probably for the best in the long run. West Ham should have had Antonio’s heir in the club long ago.
Now their hand will finally be forced.
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