‘He'll be back stronger’ - Jarrod Bowen admits relief that Michail Antonio is ‘here to tell the story’ as West Ham captain pays tribute to team-mate after car crash

Bowen paid a heartfelt tribute to team-mate and friend Antonio after his horrific car accident on Saturday. The England international thanked Antonio's well-wishers for their constant messages of support for the footballer. He also admitted relief that Antonio survived the tragedy and is present to narrate the horror incident.

The Jamaica international was involved in a horrific car accident on Saturday after his Ferrari FF collided with a tree. The player was airlifted to a hospital where he underwent surgery. The 34-year-old will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign and is expected to take at least a year to fully recover.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Hammers skipper said: "It’s been one of those things that you never think you’ll be involved in. Mick’s been here longer than I have, everyone loves him, and he’s a big character. Those few hours on Saturday were difficult. He’s not just a team-mate, he’s a friend of ours. He’s been a friend of ours for years. He’s a dad as well to beautiful children.

"I just want to say thank you for all the support from everyone. As captain, I’ve seen all the messages, seen all the support that Mick’s got. It’s one of those things where life is bigger than football sometimes. It’s one of those where everyone came together."

He added: "So for me, I truly appreciate that and I know everyone here appreciates that. The main thing now is Mick’s safe, he’s well and he’s here to tell the story. On Saturday it was a really difficult time, but Mick’s a warrior, Mick’s a fighter, he always has been through his career. I know he’ll be back stronger from this."

West Ham players have decided to paid tribute to Antonio ahead of their crucial Premier League fixture against Wolves on Monday night at London Stadium.