First Team Squad

Player profile and performance records.

Michail Antonio (Striker)

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Michail Antonio

 Wandsworth, England
Squad Number: 9
Position: Striker
Born: 28th Mar 1990 (Wandsworth, England)
Signed: 31st Aug 2015 (£7,000,000)
Contract: 2½ years (signed January 2022)
Previous Club: Nottingham Forest

KUMB Awards:
Player of the Year (runner up) 2015/16, 2016/17, (third place) 2019/20; Best Signing (runner up) 2015/16; Most Improved Player 2015/16, (runner up) 2019/20, (third place) 2018/19; Goal of the Season (runner up) 2018/19

Having played as a conventional winger and at right back and wing back under Slaven Bilic, Antonio - who was initially signed by the Croat from Championship side Nottingham Forest - was finally converted to a striker by David Moyes.

A Jamaican international (despite having been selected - but not used - by Gareth Southgate for England) he signed contract extensions in June 2016, May 2017, December 2020 and, most recently, in January 2022.

Antonio changed his shirt number from #30 to #9 ahead of the 2021/22 season.

 

vs Nottingham Forest

3-2: Sunday, 12th November
(Played 11 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Alvarez 79) Couldn't make much impact, but his presence added another threat and West Ham needed it.

vs Nottingham Forest

3-2: Sunday, 12th November
(Played 11 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Alvarez 79) Came on late and got into the right positions but didn't get the right service from Paqueta or Bowen.

vs Everton

0-1: Saturday, 28th October
(Played 90 minutes)

Didn't provide any impact on the game, had to drift out left to make up for the lack of a left winger.

vs Everton

0-1: Saturday, 28th October
(Played 90 minutes)

Suffers in games where the defence sits deeper and he?EUR(TM)s asked to play like a more conventional striker. Not that he?EUR(TM)s helped, what with a continuous desire from his team to smash balls at him.

vs Olympiacos

1-2: Thursday, 26th October
(Played 32 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Ings 58) Put in the cross which led to Paqueta's goal but still looked clumsy on the ball.

vs Olympiacos

1-2: Thursday, 26th October
(Played 32 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Ings 58) Night and day, and he still isn't on any form. Just put himself about, and the goal is all from him forcing his way down the line.

vs Aston Villa

1-4: Saturday, 21st October
(Played 90 minutes)

So poor throughout the game. Slowing down attacks, misplacing passes, and a real lack of effort when pressing. One of Antonio's worst games in a West Ham shirt.

vs Aston Villa

1-4: Saturday, 21st October
(Played 90 minutes)

A spent force. Flashes of what he was, but they're rarer and rarer, whilst his inconsistent touch and bad passes are still as prominent as ever. Now they're not being mixed in with some mad Michail magic, he's a problem. Another game where he was no threat on goal.

vs Newcastle United

2-2: Saturday, 7th October
(Played 90 minutes)

Does those hard yards and ugly bits well, but he doesn?EUR(TM)t threaten goal enough. If he follows Isak, rather than ball watches, that equaliser might not happen.

vs Sheffield United

2-0: Saturday, 30th September
(Played 90 minutes)

Good assist, scared the defenders, big presence. It?EUR(TM)s never a smooth performance, but he does so many ugly things that are really important in creating space and helping West Ham play. Just needs to sharpen up his own threat in the final third.

vs FK TSC Backa Topola

3-1: Thursday, 21st September
(Played 29 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Fornals, 61) Whilst he should have scored when Paqueta created for him, his introduction improved the team.

vs Luton Town

2-1: Friday, 1st September
(Played 90 minutes)

He wasn't given much to work with, nor did he do particularly badly with what he got. But he couldn't impose himself on the defence, one that was comfortable with three at the back and one striker.

vs Brighton & Hove Albion

3-1: Saturday, 26th August
(Played 90 minutes)

Selfless, hardworking and absolutely fantastic in a role that was thankless. He was on the fringes, but did fantastically with almost everything given to him. It was his work that earned the first goal. Let alone giving it to Ward-Prowse, he chased a ball that some would have left as a lost cause. Brilliant for his goal, but most impressed by the work and pass to start the move for Bowen's goal. Magnificent.

vs Bournemouth

1-1: Saturday, 12th August
(Played 90 minutes)

Chased and harried but provided little to nothing in the final third, bar a lot of endeavour,

vs Fiorentina

2-1: Wednesday, 7th June
(Played 90 minutes)

A bit of a thankless task as he was isolated from his teammates and given little protection from the ref. There were moments, but his final will mostly be remembered for struggling to retain possession with simple passes.

vs Leicester City

1-2: Sunday, 28th May
(Played 90 minutes)

It's a tough old job, playing up front for West Ham. If the team behind you isn't really at it, you're living off scraps. And sometimes, even when they're really at it, your entire role is to make something from little. In this game, he was given nothing much from the creatives and had no runners off him with Bowen on the bench.

vs AZ Alkmaar

1-0: Thursday, 18th May
(Played 90 minutes)

Ran the defenders ragged, bullied them, relieved pressure with great carries from deep, held the ball up, good movement for Paquet?? on the counters. It was a game where he was being asked to do a lot just to get attacks started, let alone trying to be the man on the end of them, and his performance was key to everything. The defence get no break without him, the side have no threat without his work to be a whole front line from wing to wing.

vs AZ Alkmaar

2-1: Thursday, 11th May
(Played 90 minutes)

Worked hard, was often given very little to work with, and continued to pull the defence around even as the referee allowed open season on pushing him. It was a fine game, if not particularly good, but then he reacts so quickly for the goal, such a crucial goal, that it really lifts the performance.

vs Manchester United

1-0: Sunday, 7th May
(Played 90 minutes)

A really strong performance from Micky, firmly set in beast mode for the occasion. Very unfortunate to have a 'goal' disallowed for a supposed foul on David De Gea, who simply crumbled under pressure. Was involved in the build-up to the winning goal and his size and power generally threatened the visitors all afternoon.

vs Manchester City

0-3: Wednesday, 3rd May
(Played 67 minutes)

At moments, he broke away and caused issues with his running. City were not comfortable with him, and had the referee given the bookings he should have, things would have been harder.

vs Crystal Palace

3-4: Saturday, 29th April
(Played 90 minutes)

Not really his fault. The referee seemed to believe the rules on freekicks do not apply to handing Antonio, whilst his team offered little in the way of service.

vs Liverpool

1-2: Wednesday, 26th April
(Played 70 minutes)

A lot of good, selfless work, but he looked a little tired. However, his work on the goal is absolutely brilliant and understated forward play. For someone whose technique and intelligence is often questioned, both were perfect when needed in that moment.

vs Bournemouth

4-0: Sunday, 23rd April
(Played 90 minutes)

Took his goal very well, caused issues, worked hard. His return to form has made evening else look better.

vs Gent

4-1: Thursday, 20th April
(Played 90 minutes)

Mic's resurgence late into the season is looking the key to any West Ham success. He bullied Arsenal at the weekend with hard work and physicality, and bullied Gent here with nous and goals. The header is just a man who knew where to stand and that he couldn't be moved by a defender.

vs Arsenal

2-2: Sunday, 16th April
(Played 90 minutes)

The return of the one-man frontline. If Antonio can reach these standards in half our remaining games, there is no doubting West Ham stay up. If he can do that, he may also show he's worthy of more time in a West Ham shirt, as influence dwindles and his age creeps up. He just did the selfless stuff, the tiring work that is so rarely rewarded. And he kept doing it, whether it was taking kicks as he ran 50 yards with the ball into space to relieve the defence, or chased down Gabriel just to make sure his clearance was hurried.

vs Fulham

1-0: Saturday, 8th April
(Played 90 minutes)

Couldn?EUR(TM)t hold the ball up, didn?EUR(TM)t threaten goal. Was a better presence than Ings, but he was not good.

vs Newcastle United

1-5: Wednesday, 5th April
(Played 90 minutes)

Tried hard, but crowded out and lacks the guile to sort it. His running war of words with Wilson is embarrassing, he's half the player in every aspect.

vs Southampton

1-0: Sunday, 2nd April
(Played 26 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Ings 64) Whereas he was slightly better at getting involved than Ings, it wasn't massively so, and he is less consistent with the ball, so you lose a little something there.

vs AEK Larnaca

2-0: Thursday, 9th March
(Played 90 minutes)

Two very well taken goals, one big miss and an otherwise inconsistent performance. The goals were absolutely brilliantly taken, the kind of thing that would be suggested he couldn't do and the other two striker options could.

vs Manchester United

1-3: Wednesday, 1st March
(Played 90 minutes)

Looked more threatening, closer to how he was against Everton, but let down by poor finishing. However, he offered more when tired to the approach than Scamacca did when he came on fresh.

vs Nottingham Forest

4-0: Saturday, 25th February

(Replaced Ings 82) Come on, cause chaos, score a goal. What else can you ask for in 10 minutes?

vs Tottenham Hotspur

0-2: Sunday, 19th February
(Played 90 minutes)

It is important to say that Antonio had absolutely no chance. To end up with a good score, he was basically going to have to control clearances, beat three players, make it 50 yards to goal and then beat the goalkeeper. He also did his job badly, but I am not sure it would have mattered had he done it any better.

vs Chelsea

1-1: Saturday, 11th February
(Played 90 minutes)

Similarly, Antonio wasn't at his flowing best in attack, but made himself a one-man frontline when Bowen and Benrahma were very withdrawn. The Chelsea centre backs were not given a chance to settle in and enjoy their football.

vs Newcastle United

1-1: Saturday, 4th February
(Played 90 minutes)

Looked up for it, with the same attitude he had against Everton. But he was up against a much better defence today, and they marshalled him well. Was not at his best on the ball when they didn't, but he's showing much more recently than he has all season.

vs Derby County

2-0: Monday, 30th January
(Played 90 minutes)

Worked very hard, involved in the first goal and took his own nicely. Skills, good movement and looked closer to the Antonio we know.

vs Everton

2-0: Saturday, 21st January
(Played 90 minutes)

Even in moments where he made bad decisions today, he looked sharper. The touch was closer, to turns were quicker. Leaving Tarkowski on the deck like that was calling back to last season. His movement made Bowen?EUR(TM)s life so much easier, and his ability to drag defenders into areas they don?EUR(TM)t want to be should not be underestimated. He is not a winger. Whether it was a swansong, a fired up Antonio or just a good performance, more of that is needed in a West Ham shirt. If it was goodbye, we can all be glad he went out playing well. He deserves adulation from this fanbase.

vs Wolves

0-1: Saturday, 14th January
(Played 90 minutes)

He was never a wonderful technical player when on form, but he?EUR(TM)s horribly lacking when out of form. Needs quicker play, but also looks to have lost a burst of acceleration and an ability to turn quickly and trick a player.

vs Brentford

1-0: Saturday, 7th January
(Played 90 minutes)

It feels a touch harsh to single out the frontmen when we have discussed the midfield being pedestrian and too many defensive players on the pitch. But Antonio made things look difficult up there and could have played for another day and not scored.

vs Leeds United

2-2: Wednesday, 4th January
(Played 23 minutes, sub)

(Replacedcamacca 67') Didn't make the difference the manager needed, not really holding the ball at all and unable to stretch the defence.

vs Arsenal

1-3: Monday, 26th December
(Played 90 minutes)

He didn?EUR(TM)t look fit, looks slow, and whilst he caused issues, he faded horribly. But is another victim of how bad the base is behind him.

vs Crystal Palace

1-2: Sunday, 6th November
(Played 45 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 46) Struggled, and whilst he can do more on his own than Scamacca, the team really seemed to want him to prove it, so left him to do things alone.

vs Manchester United

0-1: Sunday, 30th October
(Played 33 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 57) Probably looked better for the contrast to Scamacca, but this was a game more suited to him than the Italian. He came in and created problems on his own, which opened up the space for others.

vs Silkeborg

1-0: Thursday, 27th October
(Played 90 minutes)

Dovetailed with Fornals and Benrahma well, taking up positions across the front three. Some clever passes in there, and won the penalty. You can understand why he may have started to go to ground more easily; referees rarely give fouls for him as he stands his ground.

vs AFC Bournemouth

2-0: Monday, 24th October
(Played 17 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 73) Busy and was good for the penalty.

vs Liverpool

0-1: Wednesday, 19th October
(Played 17 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Downes 73) Like Benrahma, he came on with the right energy and drive, took no time to adapt and improved the side. He might not like it, but these cameos make him look brilliant.

vs Southampton

1-1: Sunday, 16th October
(Played 4 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 86) In a brief cameo, he added nothing.

vs Fulham

3-1: Sunday, 9th October
(Played 11 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 79) He is looking a very good sub to use, regardless of game situation. He's fresh, defenders aren't, and he looks like he has something to prove.

vs RSC Anderlecht

1-0: Thursday, 6th October
(Played 90 minutes)

Looked a little lethargic at times, and is going to need to find his shooting boots if he is going to be the number one man up front.

vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

2-0: Saturday, 1st October
(Played 24 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 66) Following on from Scamacca, what Antonio did was come on and offer his strengths. Running, relentless energy, nuisance and physicality. He made the surging runs that Scamacca didn't, which opened up the spaces as Wolves tried to force something further forward. But a touch more class and composure were needed when opportunities opened up for him. A combination of both men would make the perfect striker.

vs Everton

0-1: Sunday, 18th September
(Played 90 minutes)

He worked hard and, when he got the ball, was reasonably good at holding it up or rolling the defenders. But, it was all huff and puff without much threat, and you can see why he was replaced. You could also see how he could be very frustrated with what is behind him, and Scamacca soon understood his pain.

vs FCSB

3-1: Thursday, 8th September
(Played 45 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 46) Once he took a hold of the game, he was in control of the FCSB defence. Took his goal well, could have had more and completely unsettled the defence.

vs Chelsea

1-2: Saturday, 3rd September
(Played 90 minutes)

Another poacher's goal, whilst he unsettled the Chelsea defence. Referees do not treat him fairly, and consistency in decisions would probably see Antonio winning endless freekicks and cards.

vs Tottenham Hotspur

1-1: Wednesday, 31st August
(Played 90 minutes)

A lot of that thankless, grunt work that Antonio gets through and barely gets appreciated for. Worked hard, occupied those centre backs, smashed the post and then produced a bit of magic for the goal. Don?EUR(TM)t sleep on that, it?EUR(TM)s a majestic spin and flick.

vs Viborg FF

3-0: Thursday, 25th August
(Played 22 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 68) In a quiet appearance, he managed to elbow a defender in the face and blast a shot miles over on the edge of the box.

vs Brighton & Hove Albion

0-2: Sunday, 21st August
(Played 90 minutes)

10 passes in 74 minutes. Just didn't get into the game. But most of the balls, as discussed, were hopefully punted up, and Brighton had three strong and mobile centre backs who dealt with him.

vs Viborg FF

3-1: Thursday, 18th August
(Played 23 minutes, sub)

(Replaced Scamacca 67) Just in the right place to tuck away the goal, and it?EUR(TM)s the kind of goal he needs to be scoring regularly.

vs Nottingham Forest

0-1: Sunday, 14th August
(Played 90 minutes)

A hard game to judge. He unsettled Niakhate, and was let down repeatedly by a poor referee. But he didn?EUR(TM)t really threaten. On the other hand, Scamacca offered very little when he replaced Antonio, the Italian yet to learn that you have to forage for yourself when you lead the West Ham line.

vs Manchester City

0-2: Sunday, 7th August
(Played 90 minutes)

The early header gave hope that he was fit, but he looked far from it as the game went on. Sluggish is about the best word that can be found. Comments before the game made it seem like the manager didn?EUR(TM)t want to use Scamacca, but he was forced to by the lumbering Antonio. Four passes (two successful) in 56 minutes,

Servette FC

2-0: Friday, 8th July

Had a brilliant first half and took his goal well. Quietened down in the second, but wasn't helped by a supporting team who couldn't work out how to pass.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-3: Sunday, 22nd May

Had a brilliant first half and took his goal well. Quietened down in the second, but wasn't helped by a supporting team who couldn't work out how to pass.

Manchester City

2-2: Sunday, 15th May

Given a thankless task, and his brilliance at being in that fight, using his body and then setting up others was on show. Bowen gets the headlines, but Antonio's work sets the platform. Fantastic pass for the second goal.

Norwich City

4-0: Saturday, 7th May

Got his goal, worked hard, caused problems and then taken off injured at half time. Job done.

Eintracht Frankfurt

0-1: Thursday, 5th May

For a man who goes unappreciated by so many, what an effort from him. Herculean, nearly dragging West Ham back into it through sheer will and hard work. With 10-men, Antonio still occupied the back three and created chances. Could have been sharper with his passing, and has to stop throwing people to the ground when they wrestle him, but such battle in his performance. A credit.

Arsenal

1-2: Sunday, 1st May

(Replaced Noble, 76) Much the same as Soucek, really. Didn't bring the life and presence Moyes wanted.

Eintracht Frankfurt

1-2: Thursday, 28th April

Commitment and movement for the goal was ideal, even if Rice was there too. Disturbed the defence, but not as much as he did against Lyon. A decent game but moments of frustration.

Burnley

1-1: Sunday, 17th April

Didn't look like he'd score today. Shots were wilder, decisions were a touch rash. He looked like a man desperate to get a goal and recover that scoring touch. He should remind himself how much the team have benefited from his selfless work. His goals will come, but the important thing is that the team scores, and he has contributed immensely to make sure they do.

Lyon

3-0: Thursday, 14th April

What a front line he is on his own. When the others weren't getting into the game, when Lyon had a grip on it, Antonio came to the fore and refused to let his side be pushed down. He won balls with physicality and brains, making lay-offs and making things happen. Often, if he doesn't score, his selfless work goes unnoticed by the negative few. It won't tonight.

Brentford

0-2: Sunday, 10th April

Just got worse and worse. Actively hampered his team in the second half. Unsurprising, does anybody really think Antonio is the type of player to play up front alone in a ten-man performance and then look capable three days later?

Lyon

1-1: Thursday, 7th April

One header in the first half that he somehow sent into the centre for Fornals was incredible. Antonio played the lone striker role to perfection, especially considering the service to him was more hopeful than pinpoint. He isn't scoring, but he's doing everything else.

Everton

2-1: Sunday, 3rd April

Worked so hard for the team and looked dangerous. Unlucky not to score but a deserved assist.

Tottenham

1-3: Sunday, 20th March

Hustle and bustle, but not much end product.

Seville

2-0: Thursday, 17th March

Jekyll and Hyde, Mr Antonio. Pretty much everything good from West Ham going forward involved Antonio. A wonderful assist, good forward play for the second goal too. But some classic Antonio moments, making the sublime look simple and the simple look beyond his grasp.

Aston Villa

2-1: Sunday, 13th March

It might not have been a game Calum Chambers enjoyed, but he will go home happy with the job he did against Antonio. And Calum Chambers is not a very good centre back. Antonio was too happy getting involved in the passing down the left, which only gave less targets to actually hit when Cresswell and Benrahma did make space. Considering how hard it felt to get that space, seeing Antonio so close was a frustration. His individual play was quite sharp and he had promising moments, but nothing of real note before the injury. It would be a surprise now were he to make the second leg.

Seville

0-1: Thursday, 10th March

Worked hard, tested the Sevilla defence, created chances for others. Antonio continued his form, another really good leading man performance.

Liverpool

0-1: Saturday, 5th March

The chief threat. The good of West Ham came from Antonio's work one way or another. Off the ball he was smart, did all the hard yards and created chances from very little due to great channel running. Created opportunities for others too and gave Konate and Van Dijk a difficult evening.

Southampton

1-3: Wednesday, 2nd March

Nine games without scoring is going to weigh heavily on any striker. With an assist last week, and a goal tonight, Antonio is getting the rewards for the hard work he has been doing for this team. He was no different tonight, still energetic, still flying down the channels and making opportunities and space for others. Deserved his goal and deserved the support the away fans gave him.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

1-0: Sunday, 27th February

With Bowen on the periphery, West Ham needed Antonio. As these pages have said, the criticism of his game recently has been over the top, and today he did much of the same things. All he added was a goal threat, but the workrate remained and the willingness had never faltered.

Newcastle United

1-1: Saturday, 19th February

His first-half performance was definitely an 8, but he was let down by a really poor forward performance from almost every other player. He drifted wide and did good work on the wings, but his decision making got worse in the second half and he started to tire.

Leicester City

2-2: Sunday, 13th February

Thankless task as a West Ham striker when the midfield and defence aren't able to pass. He worked hard all game, ran channels, pressed, battled for the ball and led good counters. The second half was riddled with mistakes long before players could even get a head up and think to pass to Antonio.

Watford

1-0: Tuesday, 8th February

A little bit unfortunate that it was a game where the quality into him was poor. But he was sloppy in many areas of his own game and marshalled well by Samir, although his frustration late on with the assistant referee was justified.

Manchester United

0-1: Saturday, 22nd January

Given a mostly thankless task, he had moments where his running added a threat and relieved pressure. Was too tired to make any impact from about 70 minutes but we have no choice but to keep him going.

Leeds United

2-3: Sunday, 16th January

Did really well on a few occasions to make chances for others. Bowen might have the hot streak in front of goal, but he isn't doing as much to make that attack work as Antonio is. Set up Fornals' goal, made the chance at the end for Bowen, played some smart passes in the build up to moves too. He was dispossessed too often, but then he gets the ball under immense pressure a lot and is asked to make something of nothing. He's doing the right things and playing the way he needs to play, he just needs others around him to be better so as to take advantage of it.

Norwich

2-0: Wednesday, 12th January

Bowen benefits a lot from the way Antonio occupies defenders and makes space for the supporting cast to come into. Probably should have scored, but did everything brilliantly until the finish. Worked hard and caused Hanley headaches.

Leeds United

2-0: Sunday, 9th January

Had an excellent game. There were moments he could have been sharper or made better decisions, but he bullied Llorente all game and made a mockery of his touch-tight defending. Brilliant pass to Vlasic on the first goal and a great assist for the second.

Crystal Palace

3-2: Saturday, 1st January

Looks reinvigorated by that gap in the games, although getting Covid is not the ideal way to get some rest from football. Took his goal very well and worked hard for the team. Quietened down in the second half and it was as the game really became all about what Palace could do that you see the need for another option. Twenty minutes of fresh legs up there for him or with him would keep the intensity in the forward areas.

Watford

4-1: Tuesday, 28th December

Treated appallingly by a referee who allowed him to be almost attacked by the centre backs, Antonio made their lives uncomfortable in defence, created the goal for Benrahma and threatened. A little rest maybe has done him a world of good.

Southampton

2-3: Sunday, 26th December

(Replaced Vlasic, 46) Good goal, mostly because it was taken sharply and in a way he has not looked capable of in recent times. Didn't have a huge impact from there, but at least gave a physical presence and disrupted the Southampton defence.

Arsenal

0-2: Wednesday, 15th December

40% pass success rate. He is willing and he continued to try all night, covering hard yards when he played right back and right wing all at once. But he is not threatening goal and he's starting to make attacks harder for the rest of the team. Some of his passing today, and his touch, just outrageously poor. Needs a rest.

Burnley

0-0: Saturday, 11th December

Worked hard - and those saying he didn't are throwing lazy criticisms - but also looked to do too much in areas where he couldn't be dangerous. Needs to work on making runs into better areas, and maybe focusing on his simple central role when tired or things aren't working. Had he made the right run when Benrahma made it into the box, this could have been a 1-0.

Chelsea

3-2: Saturday, 4th December

The return of Michail Antonio. The first half was more of the same story from recent weeks, but the second half was all change. Bowen went up there closer to him and it just brought Antonio back. He concentrated more on playing with Bowen, rather than against Christensen, and he then remembered his own game. Sets up Masuaku, starts the move for the second goal with some great running first with the ball then off it to create space. But he allowed Silva the header for the first when he should have done so much more.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-1: Wednesday, 1st December

His energy levels look depleted, his touch is notably poor too. He did well to get on some of Coufal's crosses and it's possible that delivery will bring him back to life. He also got a little more involved in the early counters and was more accurate with his passing. But he is also not anywhere near the threat he is at his best and the team is being dragged down by the lack of alternative to him, both because it means he cannot function with full energy and because he can't really be replaced.

Manchester City

1-2: Saturday, 27th November

Had he not turned three of the four City defenders and exposed them to his ability on the run, he may have gotten a four. Just offered little as a striker.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

0-1: Saturday, 20th November

He drifted out of the game, but it was also one where he was having balls fired at him from deep to win against three centre backs. When the midfield did get possession later in the game, Antonio made things happen and was threatening if not particularly sharp. Drifted wide a little too often when a striker was needed.

Liverpool

3-2: Saturday, 6th November

Not his most threatening in front of goal but it almost didn’t need to be. Others seemed intimidated in Van Dijk’s presence, Antonio was not. He probably deserves assist for the goals from corners too as his mere presence seemed to blow Alisson’s mind. It was hard work, working his defenders with channel running, physical pressure and retrieving the ball. It’s these performances that make him so hard to replace, not his goalscoring.

Genk

2-2: Thursday, 4th November

He threatened on occasion, but he just looked nowhere near himself. Or at least the consistent and dangerous version we have become accustomed to as a striker under Moyes. Probably should have scored the chance that was eventually cleared off the line, whilst a pass success rate of 53% is the kind of thing that absolutely rips apart any chance of a front line dominating.

Aston Villa

4-1: Sunday, 31st October

One of his quieter games but the flick on for Fornals’s goal and the pass to Lanzini for Bowen’s were brilliantly done.

Tottenham Hotspur

1-0: Sunday, 24th October

There were times he really bothered Romero and the defender's little strop at Fornals was probably down to how little he enjoyed playing against Antonio. Ran the channels and was effective late on at keeping the ball, even though his energy levels dropped drastically again. Took the goal well, just instinctively reacting and doing the job in a way that makes a mockery of those who say he isn't a striker.

Everton

1-0: Sunday, 17th October

He wasn't at his best by any means, but it was in his good moments that the team were most threatening. He earned that corner for the goal, probably as much on reputation impeding Pickford's judgement as anything else, whilst he did create chances for his teammates. Should be banned from shooting outside the box, he's never scored for us out there and not only did he shoot woefully, he wasted opportunities to play teammates through. But the big contributions weigh heavy.

Brentford

1-2: Sunday, 3rd October

Had a big chance to win it and absolutely missed the header. Didn’t really threaten enough and wasted two good openings early with poor footwork.

Rapid Vienna

2-0: Thursday, 30th September

The assist was done very well and he caused issues early on. Not at his best but still a threat.

Leeds United

2-1: Saturday, 25th September

A frustrating Antonio performance. There were moves that broke down due to his poor touches in simple situations, and he then went looking for the ball and cost the attack its focal point. But he still caused issues, came close on a number of occasions and then came to life to take his goal quite fantastically.

Dinamo Zagreb

2-0: Thursday, 16th September

Faded in the second half, but the instincts and awareness for his goal were nothing short of a natural striker. Brilliantly taken, it was harder than it looked, and then he bullied the Zagreb players for the rest of the half. The referee gave him nothing, probably out of sympathy for the hosts.

Southampton

0-0: Saturday, 11th September

The curse of the Player of the Month. He didn’t really threaten goal; he only has himself to blame for the red card. Whether or not it’s annoying to be grabbed aggressively by a defender, you cannot get up and throw them to the ground, even if you have a strongman reputation. The second yellow was unfortunate, but his own mistake opened him up to the referee’s mercy. Now he misses a big game for very little reason.

Crystal Palace

2-2: Saturday, 28th August

9/10 quieter game than the hammering of Leicester, but it’s to his credit that he snatched a second half goal when the service to him was awful. Excellent presence of mind on the first goal, both in the fake to shoot and then the passing with Fornals.

Leicester City

4-1: Monday, 23rd August

Nearly a 9 – Dirty Dancing homages will not be rewarded by me – but the display was quite complete. Goals, an assist, two terrified centre backs and leading the line in a way that makes a mockery of those who still call him a winger. The number nine went top of West Ham’s Premier League goalscoring charts, clear by two now, and he now has three assists and three goals in these opening two games. He may well be irreplaceable, worrying considering his fitness record and forthcoming games for Jamaica.

Newcastle United

4-2: Sunday, 15th August

If he scores that penalty, it’s a 9 and a man of the match. Instead he takes it awfully and his blushes are spared by Tommy Soucek. Aside from that, his second half was quite phenomenal and shows why replacing him (or finding cover) is proving so difficult in this market. He bullied the defence and takes two assists to go with his fantastic goal.

Celtic

6-2: Saturday, 24th July

Celtic's defenders will be having nightmares about big Mike for weeks. He tormented and bullied them ,scored twice and won a penalty. You can't ask for more than that.

Celtic

6-2: Saturday, 24th July

Celtic's defenders will be having nightmares about big Mike for weeks. He tormented and bullied them ,scored twice and won a penalty. You can't ask for more than that.

Southampton

3-0: Sunday, 23rd May

Injured his foot in a second half tackle and was walking wounded until eventually coming off. The header to Bowen for the first goal was very intelligent football, and he was threatening with the ball at his feet. Not quite a goalscoring threat overall though, but he’s part of this team and this team works hard however their individual performance is going.

West Bromwich Albion

3-1: Wednesday, 19th May

For large parts of the game, Antonio was frustrating and frustrated. Whether through his fault or others, his first minute winning of the penalty was about all he could look at proudly for a long time. But he did consistently run channels and lead counter attacks, tried to work back when others had gone ahead of him, and took his goal perfectly. Considering he really should have had an assist to go with his goal, so perfectly did he win that penalty, his performance should maybe be looked at more positively.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-1: Saturday, 15th May

The same as Lingard. Involved in the dangerous play first half, but then he tired, drifted wide and started being caught in areas where he could not be as dangerous. There is an argument about what kind of striker this West Ham side needs, and it needs more of an Antonio than a Calvert-Lewin. But it does lack a striker who is in the right areas, working hard in the right places and making runs that players know are being made without looking. A lot of strikers, you know where they’ll be. Antonio doesn’t have that.

Burnley

2-1: Saturday, 1st May

For most of this second half of the season, there have been periods in matches where Michail looks lumbering. But then it clicks and he bullies or beats a man with ease and starts a move. Or ends it. Today he showed pure striker’s instinct to get two goals, but should have had more. The game did not need to be close, Antonio could have ended it. But the two goals were the kind no-one else in this side scores and he is crucial. It is just cruel we have been without him for such stretches.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

3-2: Monday, 5th April

One big miss aside, it really looked like the international break had come at a good time. He seemed faster, fitter and in command of his game. His run to open space for Lingard on the first goal was perfect movement. He was beating players, bullying defenders and causing problems. If he had stayed on and fit, that game does not turn in Wolves’ favour. But those hamstrings seem liable to go any minute, making a mockery of the winter window and no striker.

Arsenal

3-3: Saturday, 20th March

Five shots, created five chances, two assists and a first half where he dominated Luiz. He deserved a goal, was unlucky not to get one and whilst he wasn’t perfect, he was on his game throughout and a little luck makes that a 10/10 and three points.

Manchester United

0-1: Sunday, 14th March

Another who was a victim of the way we played rather than his own failure. There were moments he worried the defenders, and he worried them all whenever he got near them, but it was rare that he could have any influence over the ball.

Leeds United

2-0: Monday, 8th March

This game was pretty typical of Antonio. Moments of brilliance, wonderful strength and great runs, worked hard and held the ball up. Then a pass awry or a simple touch goes wrong. And in moments where he looks to have lost a battle, he pops up with the ball. Did his job, worked the defence but little to feed on for goals.

Manchester City

1-2: Saturday, 27th February

A couple of those moments where you feel only Antonio could be a Premier League footballer who does something like that, but the flip side is his unpredictably seems to baffle defenders as much as they’re unsettled by his running and strength. Good instincts for the goal, regardless of if it was going in or not.

Tottenham Hotspur

2-1: Saturday, 20th February

Took his goal very well, the movement and reactions to get to the ball good, the reaction to the rebound showing a striker’s instinct. His presence unsettles defenders and we are such a better team just for having him bullying defenders up top. After the goal, an accomplished performance in the basics of holding the ball up, laying off to runners and springing to action for the counter.

Fulham

0-0: Saturday, 6th February

Didn’t have a shot on goal, didn’t ever look like it was going to happen either. When your forwards just aren’t on it, there’s going to be a lack of chances for the striker and Antonio suffered the brunt of that. And then the hamstring.

Aston Villa

3-1: Wednesday, 3rd February

A poor performance at Liverpool looked to be creeping into his game tonight with a couple bizarre efforts at goal and passes. But the hard work paid off, his strength and hold up play creating one goal, his direct running two others. He was heavily involved in all three goals and unlucky in the end not to score himself. This Antonio, playing like that, could lead West Ham to unexpected success.

Liverpool

1-3: Sunday, 31st January

It’s a bit worrying that our only striker looked so poor as we are pinning our hopes on him. His passing was atrocious, and at times he did not look up to Premier League standard. He did well to engineer the chance in the second half that went wide, and it was a tough chance, but he was poor and offered little more than Haller did at Anfield.

Crystal Palace

3-2: Tuesday, 26th January

We could have been looking at one of the great individual performances of the modern era of West Ham had his shooting boots been on. He could have had at least four, should have had three, but still threatened goal all game, set up one brilliantly and showed just how much more effective he is for this side compared to Haller in his absence. Frustrating, but with two winners in his last two games, he can miss some when we win anyway.

West Bromwich Albion

2-1: Tuesday, 19th January

Still a little short of his best, but starting to get there. Bullied defenders at times, one sent flying in a 50/50 shoulder-to-shoulder challenge, and his instincts in front of goal are starting to make it questionable why he wasn’t used as a striker all through his career. 41 goals now for the club, all in the area, and only behind Di Canio and Noble.

Burnley

1-0: Saturday, 16th January

Good goal, great to see him showing that striker’s instinct, as well as surviving the 90 minutes. He slowed down as the game went on, basically only coming to life when a chance for the counter was on, but his presence brought so much life to the attack.

Stockport County

1-0: Monday, 11th January

In fairness, it was his first start for a good while and expectations were too high. He is a player who needs time to get back into rhythm. But he offered nothing as a forward, really.

Everton

1-0: Friday, 1st January

(Replaced Haller, 59) Is still very clearly playing within himself, but being on the pitch for that length of time is a huge bonus and edges him a lot closer to starting. His introduction again forced defenders to fear the threat in behind and gave space for others to play. Should have scored late on too, running through a lot more like his usual self before fluffing his lines under pressure.

Southampton

0-0: Tuesday, 29th December

(Replaced Haller, 77) Just added the extra dimension to the attack by offering a pace threat in behind the defence. And made every West Ham fan happy by just making it onto the pitch.

Aston Villa

2-1: Saturday, 28th November

Either wasn't quite ready physically or not ready mentally because he seemed to be playing within himself and was nowhere near at his top level.

Manchester City

1-1: Saturday, 24th October

The goal was incredible, and he did scare City a couple times. But the most notable part of the game was the drop from Antonio leading the line to Bowen and then Haller. He works hard, bullies and gets in behind, no one else in the squad can imitate him.

Tottenham Hotspur

3-3: Sunday, 18th October

Quiet game and possibly would have been as surprised as the fans at home to be taken off when needing a goal to spark a comeback. It worked though. Antonio did his usual, disrupting the centre backs and giving them a torrid time.

Leicester City

3-0: Sunday, 4th October

Another day where he’s terrified defenders. Not many force Jonny Evans into silly bookings. His goal came from his own smart thinking snd the header was perfect. Then, after that, he bullied the defence and ran them ragged.

Newcastle United

0-2: Saturday, 12th September

Appears convinced he can kick the ball through defenders. Brief moments of inspiration aside, it was a poor performance from the forward.

Brentford

2-1: Saturday, 29th August

(Replaced Haller, 45) Showed his considerable strength to hold off two defenders for the first goal before being taken out by a horrible challenge that might've been a red card offence in the Premier League. Replsced just 29 minutes after entering the fray and with the Premier League season just a fortnight away, Antonio faces an anxious wait. Other subs: Johnson (Fredericks 58); Snodgrass (Antonio 74).

Wycombe Wanderers

5-1: Tuesday, 25th August

n/a

Aston Villa

1-1: Sunday, 26th July

Put that miss in the argument for Antonio not being the main striker at the club. Harshly booked and taken off probably to protect him. Wasn’t on it today.

Manchester United

1-1: Wednesday, 22nd July

Worked hard and made himself a threat. Should have scored with a header from a Noble free kick. His inconsistent finishing will be a problem if he stays as a striker, although it’s been rarer and rarer until today. Surprise to see him take the penalty and it wasn’t great, but enough to go in.

Watford

3-1: Friday, 17th July

He took his goal wonderfully, a man in form acting on instinct, whilst terrorising their backline with his running behind and his physical play. Deserved an assist for a wonderful cross with the outside of his boot. Across the season, you could argue he has come a bit late to be the best player, but there are few more vital performers to a team than the Antonio of 2020.

Norwich City

4-0: Saturday, 11th July

What can you say about that? Two headed goals, all four goals in the area, taken like a real striker - even if the hat trick goal was a little lucky. It was probably the least he had to work as a striker, but the game he controlled with ease. The Norwich defence couldn’t live with him. A quite unforgettable individual performance in a largely forgettable season; Antonio is keeping this side up.

Burnley

0-1: Wednesday, 8th July

Missed the big chance. Was sloppy in attacking areas often. And looked dead on his feet as the game went on. A worry considering how important he is.

Newcastle United

0-0: Saturday, 4th July

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Chelsea

3-2: Wednesday, 1st July

Yes he should have scored earlier, yes only Antonio could get a West Ham goal ruled out because his head was offside whilst he lay on the floor, but the man earned that win for his side by being a front line all of his own, working tirelessly, scaring defenders. He created the chance he fluffed, his skill opened the move up for the one he eventually scored, he held the ball up and then played a perfect pass for goal three. Sensational.

Aston Villa

1-1: Sunday, 26th July

Put that miss in the argument for Antonio not being the main striker at the club. Harshly booked and taken off probably to protect him. Wasn’t on it today.

Manchester United

1-1: Wednesday, 22nd July

Worked hard and made himself a threat. Should have scored with a header from a Noble free kick. His inconsistent finishing will be a problem if he stays as a striker, although it’s been rarer and rarer until today. Surprise to see him take the penalty and it wasn’t great, but enough to go in.

Watford

3-1: Friday, 17th July

He took his goal wonderfully, a man in form acting on instinct, whilst terrorising their backline with his running behind and his physical play. Deserved an assist for a wonderful cross with the outside of his boot. Across the season, you could argue he has come a bit late to be the best player, but there are few more vital performers to a team than the Antonio of 2020.

Norwich City

4-0: Saturday, 11th July

What can you say about that? Two headed goals, all four goals in the area, taken like a real striker - even if the hat trick goal was a little lucky. It was probably the least he had to work as a striker, but the game he controlled with ease. The Norwich defence couldn’t live with him. A quite unforgettable individual performance in a largely forgettable season; Antonio is keeping this side up.

Burnley

0-1: Wednesday, 8th July

Missed the big chance. Was sloppy in attacking areas often. And looked dead on his feet as the game went on. A worry considering how important he is.

Newcastle United

0-0: Saturday, 4th July

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Chelsea

3-2: Wednesday, 1st July

Yes he should have scored earlier, yes only Antonio could get a West Ham goal ruled out because his head was offside whilst he lay on the floor, but the man earned that win for his side by being a front line all of his own, working tirelessly, scaring defenders. He created the chance he fluffed, his skill opened the move up for the one he eventually scored, he held the ball up and then played a perfect pass for goal three. Sensational.

Tottenham Hotspur

0-2: Tuesday, 23rd June

Have to feel sympathy for him. He works hard, makes defenders uncomfortable, but is a winger playing as a striker. He has always been best as the second option, without Haller (and, dare I say, without Arnautovic) he is being wasted in this team. Always full effort.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

0-2: Saturday, 20th June

Ineffective as an attacking force, although that’s as much the system as anything else. Passes were just drifted up for him to make something of, not because they were aimed or creating anything.

Arsenal

0-1: Saturday, 7th March

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Southampton

3-1: Saturday, 29th February

Part unpredictable wrecking ball, part ballerina, Antonio had fun with the Southampton defence. He was either bullying them or bamboozling them. Whilst Haller held the middle ground, Antonio combined with him excellently in almost a free role.

Liverpool

2-3: Monday, 24th February

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Manchester City

0-2: Wednesday, 19th February

The last of all ten outfield starters who tried hard and worked hard. They all did. But Antonio had one opening for a shot, 74 minutes in. Otherwise he was running at four players who aren’t slower than him, rarely with any teammate with him.

Brighton & Hove Albion

3-3: Saturday, 1st February

How hard must that have been to watch for him as he sat on the bench and watched them burn down what he’d built. Antonio was the threat, at times carrying a deflated side and forcing them onto the front foot. Brought players to life, especially Haller.

Leicester City

1-4: Wednesday, 22nd January

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Everton

1-1: Saturday, 18th January

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Bournemouth

4-0: Wednesday, 1st January

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Leicester City

1-2: Saturday, 28th December

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Crystal Palace

1-2: Thursday, 26th December

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Southampton

1-0: Saturday, 14th December

The Southampton defence were terrified of him. He was too strong, too fast, too clever. Deserved a goal, did brilliantly for the winner, a wonderful performance. Him and Haller were a good combination.

Arsenal

1-3: Saturday, 7th December

Didn’t look anywhere near match fit. Threatened the defence with his running once.

Chelsea

1-0: Saturday, 30th November

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Tottenham Hotspur

2-3: Saturday, 23rd November

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Burnley

0-3: Saturday, 9th November

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Everton

0-2: Saturday, 19th October

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Newport County

2-0: Tuesday, 27th August

Cruel injury could be very costly as he’s brought life to West Ham in the league.

Watford

3-1: Saturday, 24th August

(Replaced Yarmolenko) Made a huge difference. Pace and power, direct running and the man who gets around and beyond Haller, which makes his game more effective.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-1: Saturday, 17th August

(Replaced Wilshere) Struggled initially to make an impact but his direct running late on was dangerous. Had a shot that was bad for his standards at one point, skied to a different stratosphere.

Manchester City

0-5: Saturday, 10th August

Whilst his low pass accuracy (60%) is always going to contrast with what Pellegrini demands, he is absolutely different to every other option and his running in behind does seem to allow for Haller to drop in and play football with the midfield. He is also an option to attack crosses with the big forward, which may not be aesthetically what Pellegrini wants, but is clearly threatening. Wrongly replaced.

Athletico Bilbao

2-2: Saturday, 3rd August

(Replaced Fornals) Worked hard playing on the left side of midfield for scant reward.

Hertha Berlin

5-3: Wednesday, 31st July

(Replaced Fornals) Playing on the left, he looked both fit and lively when bursting forward.

Fulham

1-0: Saturday, 27th July

Match notes to follow.

Newcastle United

0-1: Saturday, 20th July

(Replaced Hernandez) Showed how a lone striker's role should be handled. Lots of effort for little reward today.

Manchester City

1-4: Wednesday, 17th July

A real busy bee in the 45 minutes he played as the lone striker - a role to be filled by the club's record signing upon returning from China.

Watford

4-1: Sunday, 12th May

Has caused havoc these last few games and today was no different. Heavily involved in three goals and could have scored himself.

Southampton

3-0: Saturday, 4th May

Stuck to his task, worked hard, one little moment to combine with Lanzini, but otherwise a hard game.

Tottenham Hotspur

1-0: Saturday, 27th April

Stuck to his task, worked hard, one little moment to combine with Lanzini, but otherwise a hard game.

Leicester City

2-2: Saturday, 20th April

A frustrating player often, but today he was the only real consistent spark. Header was fantastic for the goal and he bullied Maguire and Chilwell.

Manchester United

1-2: Saturday, 13th April

Stuck to his task, worked hard, one little moment to combine with Lanzini, but otherwise a hard game.

Huddersfield Town

4-3: Saturday, 16th March

Probably a little unlucky to be withdrawn, but a team lacking guile was sometimes let down by the lack of finesse on offer with Michail.

Cardiff City

0-2: Saturday, 9th March

(Replaced Noble) Gave a change of approach, but didn’t really force much. 50% pass accuracy.

Cardiff City

0-2: Saturday, 9th March

(Replaced Noble) Although he lacked that final ball (embarrassingly so on one occasion), he brought a bit of pace to the game and looked one of the only West Ham players giving 100%.

Newcastle Utd

2-0: Saturday, 2nd March

Did not play.

Manchester City

0-1: Wednesday, 27th February

Stuck to his task, worked hard, one little moment to combine with Lanzini, but otherwise a hard game.

Fulham

3-1: Friday, 22nd February

Threatened out wide and in the box, is getting into central positions at times that are making things easier for the lone forward. Still less than elegant, but more and more effective. Good goal, well deserved.

Crystal Palace

1-1: Saturday, 9th February

A strong performance from Antonio. He showed good physicality and outran Palace down the right-hand side on a number of occasions.

Crystal Palace

1-1: Saturday, 9th February

Confidence is definitely back. Won the penalty, bothered their fullbacks with direct running, worked up and down the channel.

Liverpool

1-1: Monday, 4th February

Could well have been on the way out in summer, scored again against Liverpool. Worked hard, protected his right back yet supported the attacks. The finish was perfect.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

0-3: Tuesday, 29th January

He does try, and he is working hard up front. Cumbersome as ever, we had no shots on target - doesn’t suggest our two forwards are getting much praise.

AFC Wimbledon

2-4: Saturday, 26th January

Realistically, he was the least bad in the first half. Excused much focus in the report for his late misses, but they sum him up. Nearly good, not often good enough.

Bournemouth

0-2: Saturday, 19th January

Arsenal

1-0: Saturday, 12th January

Birmingham City

2-0: Saturday, 5th January

Solid defensively, with vital clearance at the end of the first half. Set up Carroll with exactly the kind of cross he had been begging for.

Brighton & Hove Albion

2-2: Wednesday, 2nd January

Burnley

0-2: Sunday, 30th December

Southampton

2-1: Thursday, 27th December

Watford

0-2: Saturday, 22nd December

Fulham

2-0: Saturday, 15th December

Crystal Palace

3-2: Saturday, 8th December

Did not play.

Cardiff City

3-1: Tuesday, 4th December

Manchester City

0-4: Saturday, 24th November

A ten for effort, rather less for end product when important. A decent game, dangerous moments, but his flaws still very much on show.

Huddersfield Town

1-1: Saturday, 10th November

(Replaced Obiang) It was once often suggested that goalkeeper Mervyn Day lost his spark upon getting married. Exactly what Antonio's reason is remains unclear, but if anyone finds his mojo could you please return it immediately.

Burnley

4-2: Saturday, 3rd November

(Replaced Diangana) Only on the field for a matter of minutes but had a major role in West Ham's final goal.

Tottenham Hotspur

1-3: Wednesday, 31st October

Leicester City

1-1: Saturday, 27th October

(Replaced Hernandez) It couldn't get much worse after Javier's ineffective performance, but the out-of-sorts Antonio certainly gave it a good shot. His most notable contribution was a promising 30-yard run which ended when he ran past the ball, before retrieving it and chipping it gently into the arms of a grateful Kasper Schmeichel.

Tottenham Hotspur

0-1: Saturday, 20th October

Brighton & Hove Albion

0-1: Friday, 5th October

Manchester United

3-1: Saturday, 29th September

(Replaced Arnautovic) His fresh legs replaced a tiring Arnie at a time when the points were pretty much in the bag.

Macclesfield Town

8-0: Wednesday, 26th September

Chelsea

0-0: Sunday, 23rd September

Played up front in place of the stricken Arnautovic but missed two golden opportunities to break the deadlock.

Everton

3-1: Sunday, 16th September

Wolverhampton Wanderers

0-1: Saturday, 1st September

AFC Wimbledon

3-1: Tuesday, 28th August

Too often relied on brawn rather than brains to try and unlock Liverpool's defence and outshone by his replacement.

Arsenal

1-3: Saturday, 25th August

Liitle end product to shout about.

Liverpool

0-4: Sunday, 12th August

Too often relied on brawn rather than brains to try and unlock Liverpool's defence and outshone by his replacement.

Southampton

3-0: Saturday, 31st March

Terrorised Daryl Janmaat down the left with his sheer pace and strength, despite being in an unfavoured wing-back position.

Burnley

0-3: Saturday, 10th March

Terrorised Daryl Janmaat down the left with his sheer pace and strength, despite being in an unfavoured wing-back position.

Swansea City

1-4: Saturday, 3rd March

Terrorised Daryl Janmaat down the left with his sheer pace and strength, despite being in an unfavoured wing-back position.

Liverpool

1-4: Saturday, 24th February

Terrorised Daryl Janmaat down the left with his sheer pace and strength, despite being in an unfavoured wing-back position.

Watford

2-0: Saturday, 10th February

Terrorised Daryl Janmaat down the left with his sheer pace and strength, despite being in an unfavoured wing-back position.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-3: Saturday, 3rd February

(Replaced Rice) Relented the few attacks West Ham had while he was on the pitch and provided absolutely nothing to the cause. Clearly still on the road to recovery from injuries.

Brighton & Hove Albion

1-3: Saturday, 3rd February

(Replaced Rice) Relented the few attacks West Ham had while he was on the pitch and provided absolutely nothing to the cause. Clearly still on the road to recovery from injuries.

Bournemouth

3-3: Tuesday, 26th December

A big threat for Man City in defence causing problems on the counter attack with his speed. Wasn't as productive when moved into a midfield role after the withdrawal of Kouyate.

Newcastle United

2-3: Saturday, 23rd December

A poor performance from him today struggling to find some rythmn throughout the course of the match. Missed three very important headers in the first half that could have put West Ham back into the lead.

Arsenal

0-0: Wednesday, 13th December

Comments to follow.

Chelsea

1-0: Saturday, 9th December

Comments to follow.

Manchester City

1-2: Sunday, 3rd December

A big threat for Man City in defence causing problems on the counter attack with his speed. Wasn't as productive when moved into a midfield role after the withdrawal of Kouyate.

Everton

0-4: Wednesday, 29th November

(Repalced Arnautovic) Comments to follow.

Crystal Palace

2-2: Saturday, 28th October

(Replaced Zabaleta) Comments to follow.

Brighton & Hove Albion

0-3: Friday, 20th October

Looked bright early on but lost his touch as the game wore on as did everybody else.

Burnley

1-1: Saturday, 14th October

Got back on the scoresheet with a clever goal and was hard to deal with due to his sheer power. Though he did get very frustrated in the second half making unnecessary tackles and losing the ball constantly.

Swansea City

1-0: Saturday, 30th September

At times seemed like the only player interested in going forward and threatening the opposition. Always making the most of his raw strength and speed.

Tottenham Hotspur

2-3: Saturday, 23rd September

At times seemed like the only player interested in going forward and threatening the opposition. Always making the most of his raw strength and speed.

Bolton Wanderers

3-0: Tuesday, 19th September

Did not play.

West Bromwich Albion

0-0: Saturday, 16th September

Probably shaded it for MOTM, though in truth it was all much of a muchness today. His direct running caused a few problems.

West Bromwich Albion

0-0: Saturday, 16th September

At times seemed like the only player interested in going forward and threatening the opposition. Always making the most of his raw strength and speed.

Huddersfield Town

2-0: Monday, 11th September

Skilful, incredibly strong and pacey, all that you can ask for from an attacking player. One of the few players on the pitch who was confident enough to beat a player and make his own luck. An absolute nightmare for the Huddersfield defence.

Newcastle United

0-3: Saturday, 26th August

Commnts to follow.

Southampton

2-3: Saturday, 19th August

Caused problems but tired rapidly in the second half.

Swansea

1-0: Saturday, 8th April

Unlucky son. If that knock is as serious as it looks that might well be it for the season unfortunately.

Leicester City

2-3: Saturday, 18th March

Strong and powerful on the run, always caused problems.

AFC Bournemouth

2-3: Saturday, 11th March

The one player likely to light up the OS on an otherwise dull and dreary night.

Chelsea

1-2: Monday, 6th March

The one player likely to light up the OS on an otherwise dull and dreary night.

Watford

1-1: Saturday, 25th February

The one player likely to light up the OS on an otherwise dull and dreary night.

West Bromwich Albion

2-2: Saturday, 11th February

A willing runner both up front and at wing back. Looked better in the latter position though.

Southampton

3-1: Saturday, 4th February

The one player likely to light up the OS on an otherwise dull and dreary night.

Manchester City

0-4: Wednesday, 1st February

The one player likely to light up the OS on an otherwise dull and dreary night.

Middlesbrough

3-1: Saturday, 21st January

Never stopped working and, like last weekend, played a amjot part in a late breakaway goal.

Crystal Palace

3-0: Saturday, 14th January

Ok at wing back in the first half. Better as a foil for Carroll in the second half. Provided assists for all three goals. All of that after getting out of bed with a temperature approaching that of molten steel.

Manchester City

0-5: Friday, 6th January

As the game progressed he became more and more of a threat. Went down a bit too easy for the penalty for my liking though. Not something I’m keen on.

Manchester United

0-2: Monday, 2nd January

As the game progressed he became more and more of a threat. Went down a bit too easy for the penalty for my liking though. Not something I’m keen on.

Leicester City

0-1: Saturday, 31st December

As the game progressed he became more and more of a threat. Went down a bit too easy for the penalty for my liking though. Not something I’m keen on.

Swansea City

4-1: Monday, 26th December

As the game progressed he became more and more of a threat. Went down a bit too easy for the penalty for my liking though. Not something I’m keen on.

Hull City

1-0: Saturday, 17th December

As the game progressed he became more and more of a threat. Went down a bit too easy for the penalty for my liking though. Not something I’m keen on.

Burnley

1-0: Wednesday, 14th December

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Liverpool

2-2: Sunday, 11th December

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Arsenal

1-5: Saturday, 3rd December

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Manchester United

1-4: Wednesday, 30th November

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Manchester United

1-1: Sunday, 27th November

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Tottenham Hotspur

2-3: Saturday, 19th November

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Stoke City

1-1: Saturday, 5th November

Scored (that panel can do one). Got fouled a lot more times than he was given free-kicks for. A bit wasteful in possession occasionally.

Everton

0-2: Sunday, 30th October

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Chelsea

2-1: Wednesday, 26th October

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Sunderland

1-0: Saturday, 22nd October

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Crystal Palace

1-0: Saturday, 15th October

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Middlesbrough

1-1: Saturday, 1st October

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Southampton

0-3: Sunday, 25th September

Occasionally dangerous but gave his full back little help defensively. Here’s an idea. Play him up front maybe?

Accrington Stanley

1-0: Wednesday, 21st September

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

West Bromwich Albion

2-4: Saturday, 17th September

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Watford

2-4: Saturday, 10th September

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Manchester City

1-3: Sunday, 28th August

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Astra Giurgiu

0-1: Thursday, 25th August

Another wh gave his all - perhaps too much, as he is want to do.

AFC Bournemouth

1-0: Sunday, 21st August

Eager (perhaps too much) to impress having been restored to his rightful position, Antonio was everywhere - playing on both flanks and, late on, almost as a traditional #10 behind the front two. A magnificent goal was a deserved reward for his efforts.

Astra Giurgiu

1-1: Thursday, 18th August

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Chelsea

1-2: Monday, 15th August

Gave away a penalty and hauled off immediately as reward. But he shouldn't be playing at right back.

Juventus

2-3: Sunday, 7th August

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

NK Domzale

3-0: Thursday, 4th August

Much better than last week but I’m not as convinced as the manager as to the long-term viability of having him in that role.

NK Domzale

3-0: Thursday, 4th August

Looked accomplished at full back tonight, as he had very little defending to do. Sterner tests will follow for Antonio, as will the inevitable qeustions regarding his suitability for the role.

Manchester United

3-2: Tuesday, 10th May

This is when it works with him at RB. When we are concentrating on pushing forward and dominating matches. Marvellous header for the equaliser.

Swansea City

1-4: Saturday, 7th May

As usual there was no lack of effort - but perhaps a little shortage in guile and quality.

Manchester United

1-2: Wednesday, 13th April

Stuck to his task well but having him at left back always seems like a bit of a waste – as his last minute run and shot suggested.

Crystal Palace

2-2: Saturday, 2nd April

I prefer him further forward to be honest. Caused problems when he was allowed to do so.

Chelsea

2-2: Saturday, 19th March

Better going forward than defensively but stuck to the task as best he could.

Manchester United

1-1: Sunday, 13th March

Stuck to his task well but having him at left back always seems like a bit of a waste – as his last minute run and shot suggested.

Liverpool

2-1: Tuesday, 9th February

(Replaced Moses) One lung-bursting 90-yard run briefly worried Liverpool but this was not a night to see him at his attacking best.

Southampton

0-1: Saturday, 6th February

Huffed and puffed but to little avail.

Liverpool

0-0: Saturday, 30th January

(Replaced Moses) One lung-bursting 90-yard run briefly worried Liverpool but this was not a night to see him at his attacking best.

Manchester City

2-2: Saturday, 23rd January

Hard working in both attack and defence. Looked knackered when he came off – had earned it.

Newcastle United

1-2: Saturday, 16th January

Did not play.

AFC Bournemouth

3-1: Tuesday, 12th January

Not quite up to his recent performances but still doing enough to justify his recent inclusion.

Wolves

1-0: Saturday, 9th January

Ginge got the sponsor’s MOTM but this lad did it for me. Dangerous in attack, the goal was the icing on that particular cake. However, he tracked back and was often to be found getting a block in here, cutting out a dangerous cross there. He looked knackered at the end – he earned it. MOTM.

Liverpool

2-0: Saturday, 2nd January

Ginge got the sponsor’s MOTM but this lad did it for me. Dangerous in attack, the goal was the icing on that particular cake. However, he tracked back and was often to be found getting a block in here, cutting out a dangerous cross there. He looked knackered at the end – he earned it. MOTM.

Southampton

2-1: Sunday, 27th December

Clearly purchased with one eye on the future, he has been brought into the first team picture ahead of schedule and is beginning to make a case for inclusion on a more regular basis once we get everyone fit. At times he represented our sole attacking presence. Marvellous finish for the goal (!) which, note to editor, if we introduce a Carlton Cole Memorial Award for best Comedy Goal Of The Season must surely be a shoe-in. MOTM.

Swansea City

0-0: Sunday, 20th December

As usual there was no lack of effort - but perhaps a little shortage in guile and quality.

Newcastle United

2-0: Monday, 14th September

Did not play.
Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

Michail Antonio did not play for West Ham during this season.

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