That's Torn It! Antonio Out For Ages

Contrary to the hopeful images we saw of Michail Antonio at Rush Green, the Hammers striker has been side lined for what could be up to six weeks with an injury to his troublesome hamstring, it is a situation that was always going to potentially occur, but the timing was not anticipated.

To lose such an influential player is little short of catastrophic, but David Moyes has built a squad that works as a unit and the loss of Antonio, grievous as it is, doesn't necessarily spell imminent disaster. The recent recruitment of Said Benrahma from Brentford has turned out to be a god send as he might just be the solution to the problem, either as a fox in the box, or as a provider at close quarters for the under performing Sebastien Haller.

Although Antonio has taken the spotlight with regards to goal scoring and tremendous wing play, it should not be forgotten that one of the reasons he has found himself so much space is because of Jarrod Bowen operating on the opposite flank, not only that, but the tireless running of Pablo Fornals also creates endless opportunities.

The situation is obviously not ideal, but it was one that most fans expected to happen, however it had been hoped that it would be later rather than sooner! Michail Antonio has shown the way for the 'expensive' players to go about their business on the pitch, nothing less than all out commitment will be tolerated by David Moyes, his coaching staff, or indeed the fans.

An outsider looking in would say, "Hey, what's the problem? Your winger who has become a striker is now injured, so you replace him with your record signing who was supposed to playing as a striker in the first place, and you do have additional wingers available don't you?"

If only life was that simple, particularly when it involves West Ham United and their long suffering fans, it is to be hoped that Big Mich recovers soon, but is not rushed back too soon, we wish him all the best. - Ed