West Ham United manager Manuel Pellegrini has stated: “I think Antonio will be ready for after the international break.” This news has led to many fans hoping that it will mean the 29-year-old will return against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.
Michail Antonio has played just 126 minutes in the Premier League this season, however, with West Ham playing Spurs on Saturday, many fans are calling for the 29-year-old’s return. The Englishman last played against Newport County in August but was taken off in just eight minutes during the cup fixture because of an injury.
#MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/E6g7zPNiok
— West Ham United (@WestHam) November 18, 2019
Who’s excited to see this guy is back very soon
— 1LoveWHUFC (@Jay93944265) November 18, 2019
Need him back. Nervous for Saturday! Kane will have a field day against our back 5
— Sammy Driscoll (@SammyDriscoll) November 18, 2019
Miss him so much hurry back @Michailantonio xx ?
— Alie Allen (@Alieson) November 18, 2019
Same again please x pic.twitter.com/UpiN2mqofg
— The West Ham Ramble (@HammersRamble) November 18, 2019
Antonio’s return would not only be a boost on the pitch but also it would give the fans some hope when going into a difficult match like this.
Hopefully this might mean @Michailantonio is back for Saturday #COYI
— mark hendy (@mhendy1971) November 18, 2019
Antonio is back
— Sergio (@sergiocarthago) November 18, 2019
What Do We Think?
It’s likely that if the 29-year-old does return, it’ll be on the bench, as starting him in such a high pace game could cause further problems so soon after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. There’s no reason why Antonio can’t get a solid 30 minutes under his belt in the second half, which would hopefully then lead to him starting the week after and help the Hammers with a rather tough and hectic festive schedule.