West Ham United striker Michail Antonio is in stable condition after a road traffic accident in Essex on Saturday afternoon, the club have confirmed.
In a statement released at 16:30 GMT, the east London club expressed their support for the 34-year-old and his family. “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Club are with Michail, his family and friends at this time,” West Ham wrote.
An hour later, an update was issued confirming that Antonio is conscious and under close observation at a central London hospital. “Michail is in a stable condition and communicating. At this difficult time, we kindly ask everyone to respect the privacy of Michail and his family,” the club further said.
The Hammers ensured fans that further updates will be communicated when appropriate but refused to make further comments for now.
Antonio, who moved to West Ham from Nottingham Forest in 2015, has scored 83 goals in 322 appearances in all competitions. Born in England, the Jamaica international started his career with Tooting & Mitcham United in 2008, before having spells with Reading and Sheffield Wednesday.
Fans and football communities have shown their concern, sending in messages of recovery for Antonio.
