Michail Antonio set for emotional return to West Ham three months on from horror car accident which left fan-favourite fearing for his life

Michail Antonio will make an emotional return to the London Stadium tonight ahead of West Ham’s clash with Newcastle.

The Hammers striker is still recovering after his horror car crash in December that saw Antonio trapped inside his Ferrari for 45 minutes that left him with a broken leg and lucky to be alive.

Antonio’s rehab has been going well and the forward recently returned from a 12-day warm weather training programme in Dubai.

The 34-year-old will be introduced to the West Ham crowd at the London Stadium just before kick-off as Graham Potter’s side look to make it three Premier League wins in a row to move up to 13th in the table.

Fan group Ironworks Alliance plan to unfurl a huge banner to show their ‘love and support’ for Antonio.

‘Once we became aware that Michail would soon be making his return to the stadium, we launched the crowdfunding campaign and worked with the club to make this possible,’ read an Alliance statement.

Antonio will be introduced pre-match, three months on from his horror car accident

West Ham fans are expected to show their support to Antonio with a banner. Pictured – one fan displays a message to Antonio in December following the forward’s car crash

‘We are extremely grateful to all supporters who have contributed, allowing the West Ham United family to show Michail how much he means to us.’

Antonio suffered his crash before Potter’s arrival at the club but the Hammers boss has already been impressed with his attitude following such a serious accident.

He remains a key part of the Hammers dressing room, in charge of the team’s fines system, while the squad visited Antonio in hospital after the crash.

‘What impressed was the fact that he recognised the situation, the ordeal and the severity of it and reflected on it in a human way, not a footballer way,’ said Potter recently.

‘When you go through something like that it gives you perspective. We’ve had to give him the space he needs because the most important thing is him. The team and the club understands that. We’re here to support him as best we can.

‘Because of the severity of the injury and incident it’s important he takes the time he needs with the medical staff. I wouldn’t want to put a timeframe on a return because it’s not fair to him.’

‘Mich’s recovery is moving in the right direction. I wouldn’t be thinking anything (of a potential return) this side of the international break. It’s not a case of rushing it but it’s certainly positive.’