The loss of Michail Antonio‘s passport proved perfect for Lopetegui and for West Ham against Newcastle. The 34 year old’s absence from Jamaican football and no transatlantic travel meant he was rested, fresh and strong for the visit north. The extra spice of the rivalry which Hammers number nine enjoys with his counterpart Callum Wilson probably added that extra zip to Antonio’s performance.
At thirty four, his recovery will be longer and his need for more frequent management will be that much greater. West Ham have precious little as an alternative right now but Antonio’s re-emergence in his ‘beast’ mode, even temporarily, has shown how urgent the need is to replace him. With Bowen and Summerville using guile, skill, pace and creativity, Hammers’ number nine used speed and muscle to bully the opposition, tackle back and look, if only fleetingly, back to his awesome best.
Trouble is, that isn’t going to last forever. Time will march on and and his contract will expire in the summer, meaning a replacement is critical for this system Lopetegui is developing.
Ings won’t cut it, Fullkrug isn’t fit and wants out anyway. Apart from that the cupboard is bare.
Without this colossus leading the line, West Ham will be firing blanks up front. His running and tireless effort taking defenders away to cover his movement shows how much the team benefitted. But a replacement is an absolute must for January – whatever the cost.
I don’t understand how Steidten can pay £25m for Fullkrub but not consider, as an example, Silas on loan at Red Star Belgrade from Dortmund, market value €10m (he was brilliant last night and very similar to Antonio) It makes absolutely no sense and I’m sure there must be others and it’s about bloody time we give Antonio a well deserved rest. If he’s any good it’s about time he’s found some talented, unexposed footballer’s looking for the chance to prove themselves at a higher level. Any old idiot can waste £25m on rubbish! Pull your finger out Tim.
As for Jamaica …………… absolute mistake from Gareth Southgate not capping the guy for England. One of Southgate’s many mistakes.
Let’s enjoy Michail Antonio whilst we can. Teddy Sheringham was turning out at 40. Michail does not look burnt out or anywhere near it just yet. Julen is right to start him and give him chances to shine. Just as well with our luck so far.
Yes we will need a replacement at some time. That will be someone hitting the ground running and bringing all Antonio does and more. Management will judge that time but for now enjoy the beast.
COYI
Antonio always gives 100per cent every time he turns out for us but as time marches on we will need to bring in a younger version of him he has and continues to run himself into the ground for us what ever happens as regards him being our main striker he will always be a legend at West Ham he is true claret and blue and always will be
Whipping his shorts off & seriously bulked 😮 or have I taken this the wrong way? 🤣🤣🤣
With C&H’s “top source” claiming that Fullkrug is homesick, it’s highly likely to be complete and utter nonsense that just fuels a certain narrative.
No injured player is going to be happy, but that doesn’t mean he regrets his chance of playing Premiership football.
Who are the candidates in the ‘speed and muscle’ department?
Viktor Gyökeres …… the striker Moyes dithered on and then declined for £17m 🤦♂️
Be careful what you wish for! 🤣🤣🤣
without wishing it to be taken in the wrong way, ahem, have you seen Crysencio Summerville when he whipped his short off after scoring? He is seriously bulked for one so altitudionally challenged
My reply is top not bottom bit like 🫵 error 🤣
now that was one typo of mine that made me laugh.. Yep. SHIRT 🙂
Makes two of us 🤣🤣🤣