West Ham have released Michail Antonio but vowed to support him as he continues to rehabilitate from injuries sustained in a serious car crash last year.
The 35-year-old’s contract expired at the end of last season and, despite an encouraging performance in the Under-21 side in July, the Hammers have announced he won’t be signing a new deal.
Antonio suffered a badly broken leg in December when his Ferrari came off the road and hit a tree in Epping Forest. He broke his femur bone in four places and spent three weeks in hospital.
After a lengthy absence, he returned for Jamaica in June, coming on as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat to Guatemala at the Gold Cup.
A West Ham statement read: “West Ham United can confirm that, following the expiry of his contract at the end of last season, Michail Antonio will not be signing a new deal as a first-team player with the club.
“Michail will always be a much-loved and respected member of the West Ham United family. As has been the case since December, the club will continue to support and assist him in his ongoing rehabilitation, offering him access to training, facilities and medical care if needed.”
Antonio could land new role with West Ham
West Ham also said talks over a potential new role for the club’s leading Premier League goalscorer were ongoing.
The statement added: “Dialogue continues over his future involvement with the club in an alternative capacity – including one that would enable others to benefit from his experience and leadership qualities – and he will forever hold a special place in our 130-year history.
“Everyone at West Ham United would like to sincerely thank Michail for his outstanding, dedicated service in a Claret and Blue shirt over the last 10 years.”
Antonio joined West Ham in September 2015 from Nottingham Forest, making 323 appearances and scoring 83 goals.
