West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen has backed team-mate Michail Antonio to come back “stronger” from his horror car crash.
Bowen admitted Saturday’s news that Antonio had been involved in a road traffic accident in Essex had everyone at the club fearing the worst.
Thankfully, West Ham were able to confirm he was in a stable condition, conscious and communicating, by Saturday evening.
The 34-year-old striker has since undergone surgery on a broken leg, but he still faces weeks in hospital recovering from multiple injuries, the PA news agency understands.
“It has been one of those things you never think you will be involved in,” Bowen told Sky Sports.
“Everyone loves Mich, 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 Mich has got.
“It is one of those things where life is bigger than football. The main thing is Mich is safe and well and here to tell the story. Saturday was a really difficult time.
“He is a warrior and a fighter, he always has been, and I know he will be back stronger for this.”
West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui added: “It’s a miracle, looking at the pictures of the car.
“The most important thing is the person, the father, the dad, the son that he is, and these are the most important things about Mich.
“He has undergone surgery yesterday and after let’s see about (how long he will be out for).
“We talked with him today and we are happy for him, despite, for sure, (the fact) he has suffered a lot.”
West Ham’s squad warmed up in Antonio shirts ahead of their match against Wolves on Monday evening to show support for their stricken team-mate.
The ‘Antonio 9’ shirts will be signed by all the players, including Antonio, and auctioned off, with proceeds going to the NHS and Air Ambulances UK.
West Ham said: “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.”
West Ham vice-chair Karren Brady, speaking in the House of Lords on Monday, said: “It was a real shock to me on Saturday when I received a call from the police about his car accident, but I am pleased to report that he has had an operation and is recovering well.
“And I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of the NHS staff, all of the emergency services including the air ambulance and firefighters who cut him free from his car.”