Michail Antonio released by West Ham

West Ham released Michail Antonio but promised to support him as he continues to rehabilitate injuries suffered in a serious car accident last year.

The 35 -year -old contract expired at the end of last season and, despite an encouraging performance in the part of the under 21 in July, the Hammers announced that it would not sign a new agreement.

Antonio suffered a seriously broken leg in December when his Ferrari left the road and hit a tree in the Epping forest. He broke the femur bone in four places and spent three weeks in the hospital.

After a long absence, he returned for Jamaica in June, as a substitute during the 1-0 defeat against Guatemala at the Gold Cup.

A West Ham declaration reads as follows: “West Ham United can confirm that, after the expiration of his contract at the end of last season, Michail Antonio will not sign a new agreement as a first team player with the club.

“Michail will always be a much appreciated and respected member of the West Ham United family. As has been the case since December, the club will continue to support and help it in its current rehabilitation, offering it access to training, establishments and medical care if necessary. ”

Antonio could win a new role with West Ham

West Ham also said that discussions on a new potential role for the top scorer in the club’s Premier League were underway.

The press release added: “The dialogue continues on its future involvement with the club alternatively – including the one that would allow others to benefit from its experience and its leadership qualities – and it will forever occupy a special place in our 130 years of history.

“Everyone at West Ham United would like to sincerely thank Michail for his exceptional service and dedicated in a Blaret and Blue shirt in the past 10 years.”

Antonio joined West Ham in September 2015 from Nottingham Forest, making 323 appearances and scoring 83 goals.