West Ham United have confirmed that fan-favorite forward Michail Antonio will not receive a new first-team contract, eight months after a serious car crash that nearly cost him his life.
The club, however, are in talks with the 35-year-old about a possible future role as a coach or mentor within the academy.
Antonio, West Ham’s record Premier League goalscorer, last played for the senior team in December.
Despite making a return to the field for Jamaica and the club’s Under-21 squad this summer, manager Graham Potter indicated Antonio was not expected to be part of the first-team this season.
A statement from West Ham expressed ongoing support for Antonio, calling him a “much-loved and respected member of the West Ham United family” and confirming he will continue to have access to the club’s facilities for his rehabilitation.
