Michail Antonio is reported as continuing to make good progress during his rehab process from a hamstring injury and is on line to be fit for the start of the season.
There has of course been much discussion over the player’s future but all of that should be left aside until Manuel Pellegrini has had a chance of looking at the squad during pre-season training.
And if the winger/striker is not fully fit for that, it’s unlikely he will be in a position to join a new club before the second window in January should the manager decide he can leave.
However, no manager is likely to make a “stay or go” decision on any player until he has seen them live , watched their attitudes in training and decided on how he intends to play and who won’t fit such a style.
We were told: “Michail has a smile on his face and is doing well. The realistic expectation is that he will be well ready for the Liverpool game.”
Nice article Hugh – I agree that Pellegrini needs to look at all of the players before he decides who can leave
I think that some posters have been a bit harsh on Antonio (I remember one saying that he cried when injured against Southampton because his World Cup dream was at an end – how about excrutiating physical pain?) He also gave a good explanation of his being late for the meeting before the Palace game and I believe is a good team player
I also think that it is difficult for players when the club keeps changing managers as that must generate uncertainty (will I fit in with the new manager’s plans?). Hopefully now we can have a good few years of Pellegrini to get some stability to the club
Good news. Two seasons ago he was a dynamo blasting up the right wing, taking on defenders, making great crosses and occasionally scoring. Never had a sulk unlike our current hero has reputedly had in the past. A fit Antonio is a formidable asset and as good as many of those we’re currently scouting for big money.