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    Boxing hero, 63, suffering with brain disease as son issues heartbreaking plea for support

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    BOXING legend Donald Curry is suffering with a brain disease, his son revealed in a heartbreaking plea.Curry – a champion in two weight divisions – has been diagnosed with Traumatic Encephalopathy Syndrome. Donald Curry is suffering with a brain diseaseCredit: GettyIt is a brain condition resulting commonly from repeated head trauma.Curry’s son Donovan posted online: “I’m reaching out to the boxing community to ask for assistance in finding a long-term healthcare facility for my dad. “A few years ago, with the help of Chuck Williams, my dad underwent a brain scan at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, where he was officially diagnosed with Traumatic Encephalopathy Syndrome (TES). “This condition has caused impairments in judgment, reasoning, memory, and behavior, including poor impulse control. READ MORE IN BOXING”For some time, he was being cared for at an incredible church facility in Fort Worth, thanks to the support of his former trainer, Paul Reyes, who recently passed away. “However, due to incidents of fighting and breaking rules, my dad had to leave. He is currently staying in a hotel in Fort Worth. “We are searching for a facility that specializes in patients with conditions like my dad’s, ideally one that operates at no cost. “If you know of any resources, facilities, or organizations that could help, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Most read in BoxingWhat is CTE?CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, refers to a brain degeneration caused by frequent head traumasOther elements may play a role, including genetics, but exact factors are yet to be discovered, as reported by the Boston University CTE Center.CTE is only diagnosed through an autopsy of the brain and is known to be a rather rare disease.It is most commonly found in athletes, including football players and fighters.Some symptoms of CTE include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and progressive dementia.These signs can begin to appear after years or even decades after the last brain trauma.”Thank you for your time and support during this challenging time.” Curry held the welterweight and light-middleweight titles during his career – famously fighting Lloyd Honeyghan, Mike McCallum and Terry Norris. Vincent Jackson death: Ex-Tampa Bay Buccaneers star died in hotel from ‘chronic alcohol use’ & was suffering from CTEThe American last fought in 1997 – losing to Emmett Linton – and retiring with a record of 34–6. Curry, now 63, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019 following a remarkable career. But it was in 2021 that Curry’s sons first feared their famous fighting father may be suffering from CTE. Curry was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019Credit: @lonestarcobratx More

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      Michail Antonio shares emotional post as he speaks out for 1st time since being discharged from hospital after car crash

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      WEST Ham star Michail Antonio has posted an emotional message online for the first time since he was discharged from hospital following his horror car crash.The Hammers striker broke his leg in the smash involving his £260,000 Ferrari, which saw him airlifted to hospital earlier this month.Michail Antonio has posted an emotional message after being discharged from hospitalCredit: InstagramThe Hammers star broke his leg in a horror car crash earlier this monthCredit: STEVE BELLBut he promised fans he would be back on the pitch ‘soon’Credit: GettyHe was discharged earlier today and has now broken his silence on the ordeal.Taking to his Instagram, Antonio thanked emergency services and the football community – and promised to be back in action soon.He wrote: “Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. “But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive.READ MORE MICHAIL ANTONIO”I’ve spent so many years taking life for granted. I made plans for the next day, the next year, always assuming tomorrow was guaranteed.”What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. “Life is fragile, and every single moment matters. Michail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game.”I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here.”To the emergency services, the NHS, the Air Ambulance, everyone at the Royal London and Cromwell hospitals and everyone from top to bottom at West Ham United FC. “The medical team, the board, all of the staff, my teammates and the amazing West Ham fans… I honestly could not have got through this without you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. Most read in Football”To my loved ones who stood by my side throughout everything, I can’t express how much you mean to me.”Lastly, to the whole football community thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me. It has truly meant the world. “I love you all and I am endlessly grateful for every one of you.West Ham fans pay emotional tribute to Michail Antonio with ninth-minute applause”Happy New Year- and I’ll be back on that pitch soon.”Ongoing enquiriesThe striker was trapped in the wreckage of the supercar for more than an hour before ambulances arrived on the scene.Cops have since ruled out booze or drugs as the reason for the crash, with investigators also reportedly working on the assumption that no third party was involved.There hasn’t even been mention of excessive speeding, raising the possibility that it could have been a freak accident.A source said: “Drink and drugs have already been ruled out, and officers are not currently looking for anyone else.“There is no smoking gun as far as cops are concerned right now – but they have to investigate because the smash was so serious and caused such extensive injuries.“Just because cops are involved doesn’t mean a crime has been committed.”A classy touchIn response to the crash, West Ham has raised almost £60,000 for NHS and Air Ambulance charities to thank staff for their rapid response.For their first game in the wake of the smash, players all wore shirts bearing Antonio’s name.These were then signed and auctioned off for a collective £29,613, which was then matched by the club’s board.Hammers captain Jarrod Bowen said: “It’s been special to see the West Ham family and the wider football community come together in support of Mic over the last month.“We are all grateful for the care that both the NHS and Air Ambulances UK have given to Mic during a challenging time for him and his family.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And for what they continue to do every single day for people around the country.”Pulling together during difficult times is what being a part of West Ham United is all about and on behalf of the team I want to thank everyone for helping us to raise an incredible amount of money for two great causes.” More

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      Michail Antonio discharged from hospital after horror car crash with West Ham to hold talks over his future soon

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      MICHAIL ANTONIO has been discharged from hospital following his horror car crash.The West Ham striker, 34, was airlifted to a London hospital and suffered a broken leg after crashing his £260,000 Ferrari near Theydon Bois, Essex, in early December.Michail Antonio suffered a broken leg in a horror crash earlier this monthCredit: REUTERSThe Hammers skipper was lucky to escape the wreckage of his car aliveCredit: STEVE BELLAntonio has finally been discharged from hospitalCredit: GETTYWest Ham have raised just shy of £60,000 for the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity as a thank you for their support.Antonio’s crash occurred in Epping on the way home from the Hammers’ Rush Green training ground and he underwent surgery on the broken leg that night.Hammers players all wore shirts bearing Antonio’s name following their home win over Wolves, the first game following the crash.Each of those, as well as the match-worn shirts, were signed and auctioned off to fans in order to raise cash.READ MORE ON ANTONIOThe auction raised a total of £29,613 which was matched by the West Ham board, making a total of £59,226 to be split between the two causes.Jarrod Bowen scored West Ham’s winner against Wolves and his shirt raised the most – selling for £3005.The Hammers captain said: “It’s been special to see the West Ham family and the wider football community come together in support of Mic over the last month.“We are all grateful for the care that both the NHS and Air Ambulances UK have given to Mic during a challenging time for him and his family.Most read in FootballMichail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game.”And for what they continue to do every single day for people around the country.”Pulling together during difficult times is what being a part of West Ham United is all about and on behalf of the team I want to thank everyone for helping us to raise an incredible amount of money for two great causes.”West Ham stars pay tribute to Antonio with special shirts after pal’s horror crashWest Ham players and staff all went to visit their team-mate during his time in hospital.Antonio is now recovering at home and will not play again this season.The Jamaica international, West Ham’s all-time top Premier League scorer, is out of contract in the summer.A decision is yet to be made over whether to extend his deal in order to cover the recovery, though discussions will take place in the near future.West Ham previously extended Angelo Ogbonna’s deal following a season-ending knee injury in 2021.West Ham have yet to make a decision on Michail Antonio’s futureCredit: Getty More

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      West Ham icon Ludek Miklosko reveals heartbreaking cancer battle and stops treatment to ‘enjoy best quality of life’

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      WEST HAM hero Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s been battling cancer for the last few years.The former Hammers stopper discovered he was fighting the deadly disease three years ago after finding a small lump on his hip.Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s battling cancerCredit: GETTYMiklosko discovered he had a growth on his hip three years agoCredit: GETTYBut it later emerged the former Czech stopper had an inoperable tumour in his stomach along with several smaller onesCredit: REXThe 63-year-old has opted not to undergo chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee him would be a successCredit: GETTYThe 63-year-old’s initial treatment went well, although doctors failed to discover several other tumours in his body – including an inoperable stomach tumour.Miklosko underwent radiotherapy to shrink the growth but doctors soon discovered there were several other tumours.The only option left for Miklosko was chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee would be a success.So the retired keeper has made the heartbreaking decision not to have treatment to ensure he has the best quality in his final days.READ MORE WEST HAM NEWSExplaining his decision, he told West Ham’s official website: “I was thinking about this, and had another conversation with the doctor in Ostrava.”And it was made clear to me that there could be no guarantees that it would work. “Maybe it would help to slow it down a little bit, but it would not stop it and there would be other issues to deal with.“I decided not to take the chemotherapy, because I want to live a normal life.Most read in FootballThe day Miklosko denied Man Utd the titleBy Henry TomlinsonLUDEK MIKLOSKO was once responsible for denying Manchester United a Premier League title.On the final day of the 1994/95 season, the Red Devils travelled to the former home of West Ham, the Boleyn Ground.Sir Alex Ferguson’s side needed to better the result of Blackburn in order to secure their third successive title.The Hammers had confirmed their spot in the league with a 3-0 win over Liverpool in the match before.Despite having nothing to play for, Michael Hughes caused a shock when he put the hosts ahead.Brian McClair levelled for Man United after the break and put them just one goal from claiming the title.However, Miklosko put in a brilliant performance in which he denied Ferguson’s men time and time again.Blackburn lost their match at Anfield 2-1 but the draw would not be enough for Man United.Miklosko spoke about the game in 2020 and has admitted he never tires of talking about it.He said: “I have been asked about the 1-1 draw with Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground in May 1995 so many times, but I will never get tired of talking about it.“In fact, I was at Manchester United’s training ground recently with some young goalkeepers – I am now a player representative – and there were staff members there who remembered that game.“Some of them came up to me and talked about the game and a few of them said ‘I was there and remember that game and I hated you!’. We had a good laugh about it.“It was one of those games when everything went for me, but it was also a good team performance, too.“We scored a good goal and we defended so well to stop Manchester United, who were a very good team and wanted to win the title on the final day of the season.””I have very good people around me, and I have my work and my football, which is my life, all I have known. I want to keep doing that for as long as I can.”Miklosko was put off undergoing the gruelling and debilitating chemo once it was made clear to him that his entire life would be put on hold.Meet West Ham wonderkid Kaelan CaseyHe said: “When they told me about what the chemotherapy would mean, it was a case of not being able to work or be around my colleagues for around six months, not travel, have some sickness and everything else.”And I said, ‘No – I do not want that. There is no point. “I want to live my life.'”Miklosko will be in attendance at the Olympic Stadium this evening for the Hammers’ clash with Prem table-toppers Liverpool.The club will pay tribute to their former keeper ten minutes before kick-off.Miklosko is looking forward to returning to East London, saying: “It will be very special to me.Ludek Miklosko has opted not to undergo chemotherapy in order to have a better quality of lifeCredit: REX“And, of course, the supporters. “After all these years, they still remember me, still sing my name, and that is a great feeling.“I have two football clubs in my heart, Banik Ostrava and West Ham United, and in a funny way they are very similar. “Even the mentality of the fans, very similar. Hard-working people, loyal and passionate. “If I am ever doing an interview here in the Czech Republic, I am always saying this and making this comparison.“West Ham United is my second family. And I really am looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.”Miklosko was in attendance for West Ham’s Europa Conference League final triumph against Fiorentina last summer.Ludek Miklosko has fond memories of his time with West HamCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdMiklosko upped sticks from his native Czech Republic with his wife and son in February 1990 to join the Hammers. He’d go on to make 318 appearances for the East Londoners during an eight-year stint. Miklosko and his family enjoyed their time in England, so much that his son asked him to move back to Old Blighty after they returned to the Czech Republic. He told The Athletic: “When we moved back to [the] Czech Republic, my son begged me and his mum to leave him in England.“He went from saying, ‘Why on earth are we here?’ to wanting to stay there without us. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Seeing my son overcome his struggles put a big smile on my face. Me joining “West Ham worked out well for all of us.” More

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      Brave amputee Tony Hudgell, 10, ‘over the moon’ as his football hero Harry Maguire visits him at Sheffield hospital

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      BRAVE Tony Hudgell beams with delight as his football hero, Man United’s Harry Maguire, visits him in hospital bearing gifts.Tony, ten, whose legs were amputated due to abuse as a tot, met the defender, 31, soon after surgery on a broken hip at ­Sheffield Children’s Hospital.Brave Tony Hudgell met his Man United hero Harry MaguireTony was ‘over the moon’ to meet England legend MaguireCredit: TwitterAdoptive mum Paula Hudgell said: “He was over the moon.”She added: “We weren’t sure he would be out of surgery in time, but Mr Fernandez the surgeon is phenomenal and he was out just in time to meet Harry.”Earlier in the month, The Sun revealed Tony had undergone ‘miracle’ surgery. Mum Paula told The Sun: “It’s a complete miracle — the surgeon was absolutely incredible.READ MORE UK NEWS“This isn’t the end of surgeries, but he won’t need another one for a while, so he is looking forward to playing football.”“He can’t wait, he even kicked a ball a little while he was recovering, which he maybe shouldn’t have done – but it all worked out okay!”Tony, who captured the hearts of the nation when he raised more than £2 million for the hospital that saved his life as a tot, was praised by his adoptive mum for his “resilience and determination”.The 10-year-old was subjected to a campaign of horrific abuse by his birth parents Anthony Smith and Jody Simpson, which left him with multiple fractures to his limbs at just six-weeks old.Most read in FootballThe evil pair, who were both jailed for 10 years in 2018, then waited 10 days before seeking medical help, by which time Tony had also developed multiple organ failure and septicaemia.Medical staff at Evelina London Children’s Hospital saved his life, but he had to have both legs amputated at the knee as a result of his injuries when he was four-years-old.Baby Lara Martin meets Celtic heroesAfter tireless campaigning by the schoolboy, ‘Tony’s Law’ was introduced in 2022 to increase the maximum prison sentence for anyone who causes or allows physical harm to, or the death of, a child in their care.As a result, he became the youngest person ever to receive the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2024 New Year Honours for his services to the prevention of child abuse.He has now teamed up with ‘Bionic MP’ Lord Craig Mackinlay and gold medal-winning Paralympian Richard Whitehead to advocate for better limb loss support, at the same time as fundraising to provide Christmas presents for needy children.Tony with some signed Man Utd gearCredit: Twitter More

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      Anthony Joshua shows his caring side as he hands out gifts at children’s hospital and hails ‘hero’ NHS staff

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      ANTHONY Joshua dished out Christmas presents during a surprise visit to a children’s hospital.The two-time heavyweight boxing champion stunned poorly children on the Kids Starfish ward at Watford General Hospital and hailed “hero” NHS staff.Anthony Joshua posed up for pictures with happy patientsCredit: SuppliedThe boxing star visited Watford General Starfish WardCredit: SuppliedHe hailed the NHS staff as heroesCredit: SuppliedThe heavyweight boxing champion gave out giftsCredit: SuppliedAnthony beams alongside NHS staffCredit: SuppliedDuring his moving visit, Joshua chatted with youngsters about sport and posed for selfies with patients and staff.The boxing star was seen handing out gifts to beaming children as he spent hours touring the specialist ward.He also spent time chatting to parents and West Hertfordshire NHS staff who help keep the ward operational during the festive period.On the visit the world champ said: “Today was all about trying to put smiles on a few faces and to acknowledge the tireless work of all NHS staff across the entire nation.Read More in Boxing”I met some amazing kids and some inspirational parents. I waslucky Santa was available to help me hand out a few small gifts.”Christmas can be a really tough time of year so it is important to do your bit, especially in your own local community.”Joshua’s association to the hospital goes back years – as he was born there in 1989.As a teenager he visited the A&E department a few times too many for his mothers liking.Most read in BoxingThen following his Olympic triumph in 2012 he returned to open the Leigh Warman Mural in the Children’s A&E Department.Paediatric Consultant Lynn Sinitsky said: “The joy that Anthony has spread today is truly healing. Anthony Joshua attends surprise birthday party for coach who ‘saved his life’ and shares incredible throwback snap”The smiles on the faces, especially from one ten year old who woke up to see Anthony was incredible.”Meanwhile, Ward Manager Kerry Beasley said: “Its a great thing he has done, its amazing for the staff and the patients. “It really boosts morale and spreads Christmas spirit. We couldn’t get him out!”During the Coronavirus Pandemic Joshua led a program to gift NHS staff members at the hospital with 2,000 pieces of Under Armour kit.The idea was to give a little bit back to the tireless efforts from staff, including medical professionals, cleaning and kitchen staff.Clean Herts Community’s mission is to provide aid and opportunities for people of various demographics across Anthony’s home town of Watford, with a focus on young people.The Olympic Gold Medallist has always been very passionate about providing opportunity to specifically the younger generation in his local area. This year CHC has launched both physical and educational programs from football camps to cooking and science classes.They also teamed up with Hollywood legend Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson in November to give some Watford-based kids the opportunity of a life time.And they took part in the launch of his blockbuster Christmas film Red One.It comes as Joshua attended the surprise birthday party for the boxing coach he credited for saving his life.AJ first walked into the Finchley Amateur Boxing club aged 18 in a bid to get himself out of trouble on the streets of London.And head trainer Sean Murphy guided Joshua to elite national championships before setting up an Olympic gold victory.The two have remained close over the years and AJ was a guest at Murphy’s surprise bash – organised by Finchley ABC.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe posed alongside Murphy and posted a throwback snap of his amateur days with the caption: “Ride Or Die.”In Joshua’s last three bouts, he has been cornered by British coach Ben Davison.Joshua playing with a childCredit: SuppliedJoshua set up the Clean Hearts Community, a community-interest company dedicated to uplifting the local communityCredit: SuppliedThe boxer looked very happy speaking with NHS staff and parentsCredit: SuppliedJoshua showed off his caring side in the visitCredit: Supplied More

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      Player suffers suspected heart attack during FA Trophy before leaving pitch in ambulance as game abandoned

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      A PLAYER suffered a suspected heart attack during the Third Round FA Trophy match between Gateshead and Farsley Celtic.Tuesday night’s match was abandoned as Celts’ captain Lewis Turner, 32, was rushed to hospital via ambulance after collapsing on the pitch.National League North captain Lewis Turner has been rushed to hospital following a medical emergencyGateshead’s FA Trophy clash with Farsley Celtic has since been abandonedCredit: Getty – ContributorFarsley Celtic later released an update on his health saying Turner was “conscious and talking”.Play was stopped in the 28th minute as medical staff rushed onto the pitch to attend to the right-back.National League side Gateshead were 1-0 up at the time, with the ref sending both sets of players to the changing rooms in the 31st minute.Turner was taken away via ambulance to be treated in hospital.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSReports state that Turner’s team-mates were reduced to tears and desperately called for help.Gateshead FC wrote on X: “Following discussions between both clubs, the decision has been taken to abandon tonight’s game.”Our thoughts go out to Lewis Turner & all involved with @FarsleyCelticFC at this time.”While the visitors, who are in the National League North, wrote: “We will update supporters on Lewis’ condition when possible.”Most read in FootballThe club were able to do so later on, writing in a statement: “In tonight’s FA Trophy match with Gateshead, our captain Lewis Turner suffered a suspected cardiac arrest.”Thanks to the superb professional work by the medical staff and paramedics Lewis was resuscitated and was taken to hospital.Non-league stars go SWIMMING on their pitch as entire stadium covered in water as Storm Bert wreaks havoc”It is with great relief and happiness that we can report that Lewis is conscious and talking.”We will provide further updates as and when it is appropriate to do so.”We have been in contact with the relevant governing bodies, and in conjunction with them we will be offering all the support possible to Lewis, his family, and the other players and staff.”Incidents like this put life into context and we hope you will all join us in wishing Lewis and his family all the very best and we look forward to seeing him again soon.”Leeds United’s official X account wrote: “The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with Lewis at this time and we’re all wishing him a speedy recovery.”Turner came through the youth ranks at Leeds, before being loaned out between Harrogate Town and Chester.Both sets of supporters took to X to show their support for Turner.One fan inside the ground wrote: “Really wish for the best to him that was absolutely horrifying to see ❤.”A second said: “Praying for a full recovery 🙏.”While another praised: “Excellent work from the paramedics.”A fourth added: “It was so scary to watch. Hope and pray he recovers well and hope all the players are OK.”One more wrote: “That was one of the hardest things I’ve witnessed.”Gateshead striker Luke Hannant scored the opener around seven minutes before the horrifying incident.Whether the match will be replayed remains to be seen, but whichever team advances will host Boston United in the fourth round of the FA Trophy.READ MORE SUN STORIESGateshead are currently fourth in the National League, while Step Six West Yorkshire outfit Farsley sit 20th in the league below.Turner signed a contract extension with Farsley Celtic in May 2022 after making more than 100 appearances the club. More

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      West Ham will wait to discuss Michail Antonio’s future as they offer him full support after horror car crash

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      WEST HAM will wait to make a decision on extending Michail Antonio’s contract until he has left hospital.The Hammers are offering full medical and personal support to the striker after he was airlifted to hospital following a shocking car crash on Saturday.West Ham are offering full medical and personal support to striker Michail AntonioAntonio had a miraculous escape from his horrific supercar smash — suffering just a fractured legAntonio has four children with ex-wife Debbie, who came to his bedside this weekendAntonio, 34, is out of contract next summer and will not play again this season following surgery on a broken leg.But the club will hold talks about extending his deal in order to support him throughout his recovery.West Ham have form for sticking by their players in these situations, having extended long-serving defender Angelo Ogbonna’s deal after he suffered an ACL injury in 2021.For now, however, it is considered far too soon to be making decisions on Antonio, with the club focusing on his well-being following the traumatic incident.READ MORE FOOTBALLOnce the former Nottingham Forest man, who is still being monitored in a London hospital, has begun his recovery, discussions will be held over an extension.The Jamaica international, who has 83 goals in 323 West Ham appearances, had to be cut out of his Ferrari near Theydon Bois by firefighters and was trapped inside for just under 45 minutes.The Hammers squad are planning to show their support for the club’s all-time Premier League goalscorer ahead of tonight’s game against Wolves.Essex Police have appealed for information or dash cam footage and added their Road Policing Unit will carry out an investigation.Most read in FootballAntonio’s Hammers teammates will show their support for him ahead of their game against Wolves.The West Ham squad will warm-up in specially made shirts bearing “Antonio, 9”.They will also walk out of the tunnel ahead of kick-off in tops with his name on.All warm-up shirts and match-worn West Ham shirts will be signed by the squad, including Antonio, and auctioned off for charity.The proceeds will be split between the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity – with the West Ham board matching the proceeds.West Ham said: “Everyone at the Club would like to reiterate their heartfelt thanks to the first responders, emergency services, air ambulance staff and the NHS for the incredible support given to Michail in the wake of the accident.”He was trapped for almost an hour in the mangled wreckage before being airlifted from the scene in Theydon Bois, EssexAntonio has scored 83 goals for West Ham and won the club’ first European trophy in 2023 More

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      Ex-Premier League ace Tommy Widdrington, 53, suffers two strokes as Strictly star son Kai thanks fans for support

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      FORMER Prem star-turned-manager Tommy Widdrington is recovering well after suffering two strokes last week.The 53-year-old has been supported by his loving family, including his Strictly star son Kai, after being rushed to hospital with a sudden illness on November 27.Tommy Widdrington was rushed to hospital after suffering from two stokesWiddrington has been undergoing scans and tests since as part of treatment for an ischaemic stroke at Southend General hospital.He is now manager of National League side Aldershot Town, having overseen 82 matches since joining them in April last year.His eldest son Kai is a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, while the youngest, Theo, plays for Aldershot.Kai took to Instagram to send a touching message, writing: “Thank you to everyone who has sent their messages of love and support.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA club statement, on behalf of his family, read: “Being of good health prior to Wednesday, and historically in general, his response to this episode and the initial treatment has been very encouraging.”He has made very good progress and is feeling and looking a lot better already.”He returned home late Tuesday afternoon to begin further rehabilitation.”He is very appreciative of all the messages of encouragement he’s received from all corners of the football world.”Most read in FootballIt is not yet known when Widdrington will be well enough to return to the dugout.Kai thanked fans on his Instagram storyTommy Widdrington spent four years playing in the Premier League with SouthamptonHis family added: “He also wants The Shots fans to know he has total faith in the staff and the players in his absence and looks forward to being back in the dugout when he’s deemed fit enough to do so.”The statement continued: “Tommy’s wife, Sharon, and immediate family have of course rallied and will continue to support his recovery and hope and have made this statement in the hope that it will quash any possibility of misinformation being circulated.”Widdrington’s illness came just four days after his side’s 2-2 draw with Dagenham & Redbridge.Aldershot host Wealdstone in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.And in his place, the club will be led by assistants Hugo Langton and Richard Dryden.What is an ischemic stroke? An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, cutting off blood flow and damaging brain cells. Common symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack include your face dropping on one side, not being able to lift your arms, and speech problems.It can also change how you think, feel and communicate. It’s the most common type of stroke.It accounts for about 87 per cent of all strokes.Newcastle-born Widdrington made his name as a midfielder with Southampton, who he joined as a kid in 1987.After making his First Division debut in 1991, Widdrington become a big player for the Saints following their promotion to the Premier League a year later.In total, he netted three goals in 90 games at St Mary’s.Widdrington went on to star at other clubs including Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield.He retired from playing in 2005 after a second spell at Port Vale.But four years later, Widdrington returned to the beautiful as a manager with Salisbury City.He has since taken charge of Hemel Hempstead, Eastbourne Borough and King’s Lynn – as well as two interim stints at Bristol Rovers.Widdrington has been at current club Aldershot for 21 months, winning 32 of his 82 matches at the helm.The Hampshire-based outfit currently sit 17th in the National League, with just one win in their last five games.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd they’ve conceded the second most goals in the league this season (33), three less than Boston United (36).Son Theo, 25, currently plays for Aldershot, scoring one goal and providing one assist this term.Widdrington scored three goals in his 90 Saints appearances More