“Hated watching football” | Hammers forward on his journey to east London – The West Ham Way

West Ham forward Michail Antonio has admitted that he was never much of a football club fan when he was younger.

The Hammers number 9, who is the clubs Premier League record goal scorer, has spoken of his early years and his journey from non-league to playing at the top level of the game, as now a regular for West Ham playing in front of 62,500 fans at the London Stadium.

“I actually hated watching football because it just made me want to play,” Antonio told the clubs Official Website. “I was always outside with a ball in my hand playing myself, and was never one for watching it on TV.

“I did like watching players, like Thierry Henry, the Brazilian Ronaldo, Ian Wright and Ronaldinho. I was more of a player supporter than a team supporter. I used to go and watch clips of players and would try to learn as much as I could.

“I was always a winger, on the right or left, but I also occasionally played up front. I’ve played in plenty of positions throughout my career!”

Antonio spoke of his admiration for former Hammers striker Ian Wright in particular, with Antonio highlighting how similar their careers have been, having come from the non-league route to the very top.

“He played for Tooting & Mitcham, he grew up in south London, and for everything he achieved coming into football at a late age, he became my idol,” added Antonio.

“He was a real trailblazer, and one of the first English footballers to really showcase his personality. He played for England and I play for Jamaica, but I did get four call-ups for England.

“Our pathways are very similar. I know him and he is a great guy, and anytime I need advice I can drop him a message or a call and he always replies.”

Antonio appears to be recapturing his best form following an outstanding display in the 4-1 win over Ipswich last weekend, something it is hoped he carried over into our next clash away to bitter rivals Spurs.

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