By Saikat Mandal

28th Sep, 2021 | 9:30am

Rio Ferdinand raves about West Ham striker Michail Antonio

Rio Ferdinand has showered heaps of praise on West Ham United striker Michail Antonio.

The Hammers won 2-1 against Leeds United at Elland Road on Saturday in the Premier League, where Antonio scored a last-gasp winner to seal all three points for David Moyes’ side.

The 31-year-old striker has been enjoying a rich vein of form this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists in the Premier League thus far.

Ferdinand was full of praise for the Jamaica international who is currently the joint-top scorer in the Premier League alongside Jamie Vardy and Mohamed Salah.

Speaking to Rio Ferdinand presents Five podcast, the former England defender said: “West Ham late winner. Antonio again. He is on fire. Absolute fire.”

Ferdinand also adds that Moyes has found his second home at West Ham, and the popular pundit is delighted with the job the former Everton is doing at the London club.

Massive turnaround

Moyes said after the game against Leeds that Antonio has been terrific for the club ever since he was converted to a striker.

While he has always been a good player, his versatility – especially playing as a full-back – in a way was blocking him from reaching full potential.

Antonio is strong in the air, he can bully defenders with pace and strength, he can pick the right passes, and can run into channels as well — he is a complete package.

Moyes has kept immense faith in him. While his injury records go against him, there’s certainly no doubt about his qualities.

West Ham failed to sign a striker this summer as well and the onus of responsibility falls on Antonio to carry the team forward. It seems he is relishing the challenge.

In other West Ham news, an agent of this Hammers ace has requested talks with the club after an unfair decision.

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