West Ham United head coach Graham Potter has just made an astonishing statement during his press conference.
Graham Potter has had a lot to deal with since taking over at West Ham in early January.
He’s lost key player after key player to serious injuries, and news emerged on Wednesday about Crysencio Summerville potentially missing the remainder of the season.
Earlier on in Potter’s reign he’s had to make do without the likes of Niclas Fullkrug, Lucas Paqueta, Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio for prolonged periods.
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images
Hopefully at the start of next season, everyone has a clear bill of health.
And who knows, a couple of Potter’s key men could return before the end of the season.
Graham Potter on potential return for West Ham’s Michail Antonio
The Hammers chief addressed the media this afternoon ahead of our game against Everton on Saturday.
Potter was asked by reporters about the fitness and recovery of Michail Antonio.
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Antonio was involved in a horrendous road traffic accident back in December, and he was fortunate to escape with his life.
It was great to see him receive a standing ovation back at the London Stadium on Monday night, but could we really see him return to action before the end of the season?
Potter refused to rule that out when asked directly by reporters if it is at all possible, as quoted by WHUFC.com:
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
“On Monday night, Michail Antonio got an unbelievable reception,” he added. “I think it’s too early to say [in terms of timeline for a return]. I wouldn’t want to put that type of deadline or pressure on him. It’s great that he’s here.
“It’s great that he’s making the progress he is, and we need to carry on supporting him. It’s day by day, week by week, and then we’ll see.“
Hammers News told you last month that Antonio could return for the final two games of the season, but I really can’t see it.
I would be astounded if we see Antonio play for the Hammers before the end of 2025, let alone the end of the season.
After sustaining injuries like the one he did, players rarely return to action within 12 months.
Michail Antonio has been a hugely important player for West Ham during his time with the club.
However, I really do think the Hammers should move on from relying on him so much now.
That said, it would be great to see him play for us again at some point.