David Gold: Michail Antonio pulling out of Jamaica squad is a welcome boost
David Gold has backed the decision of West Ham star Michail Antonio to withdraw from the Jamaica squad.
The 31-year-old was due to link up with the team on Wednesday, but risked upsetting the association by pulling out at the last minute, according to The Sun.
But this has been seen as a welcome boost for Gold as he will be fit enough after the international break and will also get a much-needed breather.
Via his personal Twitter account, Gold wrote, “Michail Antonio has pulled out of the Jamaica squad for three qualifiers due to logistical problems.
“The news will be a welcome boost for boss David Moyes, who has concerns about the effect of travelling across the Atlantic would have on Michail who has been plagued by injury.”
Terrific
Antonio has started the season in fine fashion and hasn’t made Moyes feel the regret of not being able to sign a striker this summer.
Since Sebastien Haller’s departure in January it was a priority position for the Hammers, but they still have not addressed it after two transfer windows.
However, when Antonio is in such fine nick, they are unlikely to care about it.
One worry is the Jamaican’s rather unimpressive fitness record, so the fewer games he plays is better for him and for West Ham.
At 31, his body is not getting any younger either and plus the fatigue of travelling could see him skip a few key training sessions in the build-up to the next game.
This has worked out for the best and hopefully, he continues his form after the international break as well.
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