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Michail Antonio made an emotional return to the pitch for the first time since he was involved in a car accident.

West Ham United’s all-time Premier League top scorer, Michail Antonio, received a standing ovation upon his emotional return to the London Stadium, just months after escaping death in a devastating car crash. 

The 34-year-old winger, who suffered multiple injuries in the terrifying December accident, made his first public appearance at Monday’s clash against Newcastle, sending waves of emotion through the Hammers faithful.

Antonio, who was airlifted to hospital following the crash of his £260,000 Ferrari near Theydon Bois, was presented to the crowd before kick-off.

 The London Stadium erupted into applause as the stadium announcer declared: 

“Exactly three months ago we were all willing him on to recover as he lay in a hospital bed. Since then he has shown the strength, resilience, and character that typifies the man. And tonight, he is reunited with his West Ham family.”

Despite initial fears that his career could be over, Antonio has been working on his rehabilitation, including light training sessions in Dubai. 

While his official return to action remains uncertain, new West Ham boss Graham Potter hasn’t ruled out the possibility of seeing the Jamaican international play again this season.

 “He’s recovering,” Potter stated last month.

 “I wouldn’t want to put any time on [his return to playing] because it’s not fair on him. We just take it day-by-day and see.”

Antonio expresses gratitude and reflection after near-death crash

Following his discharge from the hospital on New Year’s Eve, Antonio took to Instagram to express his gratitude to those who saved his life. 

“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,” he wrote.

The winger continued, “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. What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. Life is fragile, and every single moment matters.”

Antonio extended heartfelt thanks to the emergency services, the NHS, the Air Ambulance, and medical staff at the Royal London and Cromwell hospitals.

He also expressed appreciation for everyone at West Ham United, including the board, medical team, teammates, and the club’s devoted supporters. 

“I honestly could not have got through this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

While Antonio’s road to full recovery is ongoing, the love and admiration from the West Ham faithful prove that he is, without a doubt, still a legend at the London Stadium.