Antonio scores twice on return to pitch after life-threatening accident

Michail Antonio marked his return to action with a brace for West Ham United’s U21 side in a 2-1 win over Boreham Wood, stepping up his recovery following a serious car crash last December.

The 34-year-old striker netted both goals in the first 23 minutes of the friendly, with his first coming just four minutes in after pressing a defender deep in the opposition half.

He added a second with a well-timed header, sealing the win for the Hammers.

It was Antonio’s first appearance in a club match since the crash and follows a brief return to international duty with Jamaica during the Gold Cup earlier this summer.

Each West Ham player reportedly approached Antonio to congratulate him after his opener, with West Ham U21 coach Mark Robson describing the experience of playing alongside the veteran forward as “fantastic” for the academy players.

Despite his strong showing, Antonio remains out of contract after his deal expired on June 30.

While his future at West Ham is unclear, supporters have voiced their desire to see him re-signed, with many calling for the club to retain the experienced forward rather than pursue alternatives like fellow free agent Callum Wilson.