The debate goes on as [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/antonio-listed-for-free-transfer-as-west-ham-standoff-continues/) seek a new occupant for the number nine shirt. Whether reports are correct and the Irons do bring in a youngster from the crop leading the headlines – Adama Bojang, Mathias Kvistgaarden or Lucas Stassin being the current subjects of speculation – none of these will be a hit-the-ground-running ready to rock number nine. All young and ready to learn – yes.
As was Michail Antonio who arrived ten years ago from the championship. The rest is club history, as Antonio stands on the cusp of an ignominious exit when his contract expires in a couple of days time, having played under different managers, different systems, and watched hundreds of millions of pounds’ worth of striker purchases come, fail and leave whilst he has flourished.
For the time being, Jarrod Bowen apart, Antonio is unlikely to be overtaken at the top of the Hammers all time goal scoring list with 68 career goals.
As former boss Slaven Bilic told the [nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6452818/2025/06/27/michail-antonio-west-ham-contract-future/) :
_“What makes me smile the most is the fact that he’s gone on to become a West Ham legend. They tried to say he was just a Championship player, but he’s proved them all wrong.”_
West Ham need to thank Antonio, shake hands and wave him goodbye with no last-minute wobble of an emotionally-led contract extension. Truth be told his time should have been up a year or so ago. The Irons need to find another from the championship with his bull-like mentality and physique to terrify defenders for the next five years.
So the next time someone talks of the perils of shopping in the lower leagues for the “next Jordan Hugill”, just remind them that the club’s all time top scorer and legend was once a championship player too.
In the meantime, thanks, Antonio, for the goals, the misses, the celebrations, the smiles and the sheer hard work – it’s been a fabulous ride. Legend.