Garth Crooks thrilled by Michail Antonio for West Ham v Leeds
Garth Crooks was left stunned by West Ham United forward Michail Antonio in the 2-1 win over Leeds this weekend.
The Jamaican international was involved in a war for 90 minutes but had the last laugh when slotting home the winner with virtually the last kick of the game.
Crooks was blown away by the class on show from Antonio, and even included him leading the line in his Team of the Week.
Writing in his weekly BBC column, Crooks was stunned by Antonio’s development in recent years.
“The ball from Antonio for Pablo Fornals earlier in West Ham’s game against Leeds was just brilliant but his finish was indicative of a striker on top of his game,” he said.
“He might have been player of the month for August but he was certainly man of the match against Leeds. The Jamaica international plays a very physical game but in front of goal, there is also a touch of class as well.
“When I first saw Antonio play he was like a bull in a china shop. Now he looks like a match-winner. I suppose that’s what happens when you work at your game.”
Winner.
You immediately saw the difference having Antonio available as our striker after missing him for two games against Manchester United.
The attacker was everywhere, and although he was frustrated majorly at times against the Whites, he had the last laugh.
Keeping your composure in such a tough, physical game will no doubt be hard, but it was worth it when he rounded Jamie Shackleton and slotted home at Elland Road.
Having that vocal point up top also saw the likes of Jarrod Bowen and Pablo Fornals thrive too, and this should give us a real boost going forward.
Winning when not playing at your best is critical to succeeding in the Premier League, and we have Antonio to thank for that.
In other West Ham United news, ‘Brilliant’ – Alan Shearer thrilled by one Irons star v Leeds, makes big prediction
Be sure to follow West Ham Zone on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Hammers and more exclusive interviews with Frank McAvennie.