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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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      Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder

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      DAVID Coote has been sacked as a Premier League referee after videos of him ranting about ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and snorting a white powder emerged.The 42-year-old was caught on video labelling the former Reds boss a “German c***”.David Coote has been sacked as a Premier League refereeCredit: ReutersIt comes after a video surfaced of him blasting ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp in an X-rated rantCredit: XSunSport then revealed a video of him snorting a suspicious white powderThen the Sun exclusively revealed a film of Coote snorting what appears to be cocaine while officiating at this summer’s Euros in Germany.In the eight-second WhatsApp clip, the under-fire ref was wide-eyed as he used a rolled-up US banknote to snort a four-inch line of the substance in his Uefa-funded hotel room – the day after acting as a VAR for France’s quarter-final shootout win over Portugal.The PGMOL, who are responsible for refereeing in English professional football, were investigating the anti-Liverpool matter and suspended Coote pending an outcome.They have now confirmed his employment has been terminated.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA statement read: “Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote’s conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect.”David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable.”Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare.””David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.”Most read in FootballUefa had already removed Coote from their matchlist for a Nations League game during the international break.Meanwhile, FIFA are also looking into his part-time position with them.The sensational videos were set to end Coote’s career and cost him a fortune in lost earnings.As a Select Group 1 referee he is understood to earn in the region of £100,000 a year.The initial video posted in November shows Coote laying into Klopp and labelling him “f***ing arrogant”.He also said Liverpool were “s**t” in the footage, which was recorded several years ago.Coote has not denied the authenticity of the video but “does not recall” making it.The official has history with Klopp, who left the Kop giants in May.They clashed after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley at Anfield in July 2020 during the pandemic-hit season.The explosive comments cast serious doubt on his impartiality and suitability to referee in English football again.The man who filmed Coote’s anti-Liverpool rant has been named as former Nottinghamshire cricketer Ben Kitt.Premier League referee David Coote SUSPENDED as video appears to show him calling Klopp a ‘c***’ in anti-Liverpool rantKitt has also reportedly been suspended from his job.After the video emerged, PGMOL chief Howard Webb said: “We became aware of a video that was being circulated on social media that we are taking very seriously.”We’ve instigated a full investigation. One of our referees, David Coote, has been suspended with immediate effect pending the outcome of that investigation.”There’s not much more I can say at this stage until we’ve worked through that investigation.”The referee is also at the centre of an FA betting probe after it emerged he discussed giving a yellow card before a match.The conversation occurred as Leeds took on West Brom in the Championship in October 2019.During the game, he booked Leeds ace Ezgjan Alioski for a foul on Darnell Furlong, which experts have suggested was justified.The 42-year-old messaged pals after the game saying: “I hope you backed as discussed.”It is understood that Coote accepts a discussion took place, but claims it was only “banter” and nothing improper took place.The FA said it was investigating the “very serious allegations as a matter of urgency”.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”Leeds have broken their silence on the matter with the release of a statement.It read: “Leeds United are aware of allegations regarding the conduct of a match official, involving our Championship fixture v WBA in Oct 2019.”We respect & have full confidence in the FA, EFL & PGMOL regulations & processes.”We will be making no further comment at this time.”Coote has denied any wrongdoing in relation to this matter.There has also been no suggestion that he made any financial gains.Coote maintained his innocence on the matter in a statement and claimed he has always held the “integrity of the game in the highest regard”.A statement read: “Whatever issues I may have had in my personal life they have never affected my decision-making on the field.“I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability.”Last month, SunSport’s bombshell exclusive showed Coote snorting the white powder on his bedside table alongside scattered packets of prescription drugs, a credit card, and the Terry Hayes novel The Year of The Locust.He sent the clip to a pal and it’s believed he filmed himself in the hotel he stayed in during the tournament. The ref sent another photo from Frankfurt on July 1.  It showed his credit cards on a saucer either side of six chopped-up lines of suspicious white powder. Other videos were sent over the summer from France, where Coote officiated at three football matches at the Paris Olympics.The friend, who wishes to remain anonymous, also reveals that the referee made other derogatory remarks about Everton and Liverpool defender Andy Robertson.Coote branded Goodison Park – the ground of Liverpool’s rivals Everton – as the worst place to referee due to the fans “shouting abuse so close to the pitch”.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it’s “too far away” and moaned he was “too big” to have to ref at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena for their Championship clash against Oxford United on August 16.The pal is speaking out to highlight Coote apparently bragging of taking drugs repeatedly during tournaments and big Prem matches.Coote had already been suspended pending the outcome of a PGMOL investigationCredit: ReutersDavid Coote is at the centre of a betting probe from the FACredit: GettyThis video was taken in Coote’s Euro 2024 hotel in GermanyThe ref also made derogatory comments about Everton’s Goodison ParkCredit: Reuters More

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      Who is Cole Palmer’s girlfriend Connie Grace and how long has she been dating the Chelsea midfielder?

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      COLE Palmer’s career is going from strength to strength, with awards in 2024 including PFA Young Player of the Year and England Player of the Year.Off the field he’s not doing so badly either — here we get to know his beautiful girlfriend Connie Grace.Cole Palmer and girlfriend Connie Grace looked elegant together at GQ’s Men of the YearWho is Connie Grace?Connie Grace is Chelsea and England player Cole Palmer’s girlfriend.She hails from the attacking midfielder’s hometown of Manchester.Connie is very popular on social media, with over 25k followers on Instagram and more than 11k on TikTok.Connie loves to share photos of herself travelling the world with her fanbase, with snapshots from locations including Bali and Dubai.read more on connie graceCareerConnie is currently employed as a beautician.She works at a salon based in Stockport.A full set of plain acrylic nails there would set you back a reasonable £35.Relationship timelineWhen Cole and Connie first hooked up hasn’t been reported.Most read in FootballTheir relationship came to light in July 2024, when Cole was spotted getting cosy with Connie off the coast of Ibiza.The pair were all smiles on their summer getaway — relaxing on a boat and riding the waves on a paddleboard together.Cole Palmer reveals he failed PE in hilarious interview as fans tell Chelsea star to consider going into comedyFollowing a frolic in the Mediterranean Sea, they hopped back on their luxury boat to dry off.Among Cole’s possessions onboard was red and white England speaker, which appeared to have his Three Lions shirt number, 24, printed on it.At the time a source told The Sun: “They are both young and just going with the flow and enjoying the summer together.”Cole and Connie pictured paddleboarding in July 2024Credit: SPlashThey were then photographed hand-in-hand at the PFA Young Player of the Year award in September.Next up they were snapped together at GQ Men of the Year, held at Kensington Roof Gardens.Connie joined Cole and his mum Marie at the high-profile event.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was their photographic debut as a couple at a specific public appearance.Cole went for the timeless look of black tuxedo and bowtie, while Connie opted for a daring cut-out dress in the same colour. More

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      Man City’s hearing over 115 alleged Premier League financial rule breaches CONCLUDED as D-day edges closer

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      THE hearing into the Premier League’s charges against Manchester City has concluded, according to reports. City were slapped with a whopping 115 charges over alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play rules back in February.Manchester City were hit with 115 charges of alleged Financial Fair Play breaches last yearCredit: GETTYThe hearing into the club’s alleged breaches of FFP rules began in SeptemberCredit: GETTYThe Premier League and City have completed their closing arugmentsCredit: PACity have vehemently denied the charges and have been fighting their corner at London’s International Dispute Resolution Centre since mid-September.But according to reports, the hearing has come to a close.That’s according to The Daily Mail, who claim both parties have made their closing arguments.A three-man panel will now go away and deliberate the evidence before delivering the verdict anticipated around the world.READ MORE ON MAN CITYBut it won’t come any time soon due to the sheer scale of the evidence involved.It could take MONTHS before the Premier League giants learn their fate.City’s alleged rule breaking is said to have taken place over a 14-YEAR period.They were initially hit with 115 charges, although they were increased to 130 following an an administration issue.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhat will happen to Man City?MAN CITY began the season as favourites to win the Premier League title yet again – but there is one elephant in the room that threatens to put the skids under the Etihad giants.Sunsport’s MARTIN LIPTON discusses what the next few months could hold with Head of Sport SHAUN CUSTIS….Custis: So the big question – will there be a resolution this season?Lipton: Yes…. probably! It will take at least a month to go through the evidence. So I suspect around March, April time, we will get a result. But that’s where it starts to get tricky.Custis: Why is that?Lipton: If the result is in City’s favour, that’s the end of the matter. They will be cleared. They will have no punishment to face.But if City are found guilty, these will be the heaviest penalties ever imposed by the Premier League.I suspect if they are found guilty, they will be expelled from the league or given a massive points deduction and a huge fine so that they’re not in the Premier League next season.Check out the full discussion on Man City’s future.City have been accused of failing to accurately report their finances over a nine-year period from 2009-10 and 2017-18.It’s also alleged they failed to provide all the details about former manager Roberto Mancini’s pay packets between 2009-10 and 2012-13.Pep Guardiola responds to ‘sacked in the morning’ chants at Anfield from Liverpool fans The charges also relate to their alleged failure to disclose full player salaries between 2010-11 and 2015-16.In addition to their alleged financial wrongdoings, City have been accused of failing to co-operate with the Prem’s investigation.The investigation only began after the material alleging the club’s breach of the rules was published in Germanmagazine Der Spiegel in 2018.If found guilty, City could be hit with huge financial penalties and a points deducation.They could also be RELEGATED if they’re found to have committed the most serious charges.The club will likely appeal any verdict which doesn’t go their way, meaning the final decision may not be made until the end of NEXT SEASON.City have repeatedly denied the allegations since they were first published and recently stated they have “irrefutable evidence” to exonerate themselves on any wrongdoing.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Etihad club have stated they’re looking “forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all.”Pep Guardiola’s troops will be back in action on Wednesday night, travelling to Turin to take on Italian giants Juventus in the Champions League. More

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      Ex-Chelsea star Thiago Silva walks entire length of pitch on his knees after Fluminense narrowly avoid relegation

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      FLUMINENSE defender Thiago Silva walked the length of the pitch on his knees after the club narrowly avoided relegation.The Rio-based side clinched a 1-0 win over high-flying Palmeiras on the final day of the Brazilian Serie A campaign.Thiago Silva walked the entire length of the pitch on his knees after Fluminense survived relegationCredit: instagramHe was keen to show his gratitude at full-timeCredit: instagramA first-half strike from Colombian winger Kevin Serna was enough to earn the club a much-needed three points, keeping them above the relegation zone.A defeat would have seen Fluminense demoted to Serie B – the second division of Brazilian football.But they managed to survive the drop by finishing 13th in the table.Following the full-time celebrations, Silva could be seen walking the length of the pitch on his knees.Read More in FootballThe action is a South American ritual which is used to pay thanks to God for granting a wish.Four years ago, Silva promised that he would one day return to his boyhood club.The former Brazil international was keen to display his gratitude for his team’s survival after the final whistle on Sunday.A video of Silva’s act was shared on social media by Fluminense following the match.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAfter crawling the length of the pitch, the ex-Chelsea star put his head to the floor before standing up and waving at the few remaining fans in the stadium.Raphinha did the same action after Leeds United survived relegation from the Premier League in May 2022.Thiago Silva breaks down in tears as he announces Chelsea exit but plans swift return with both sons still at clubSilva joined Fluminense as a free agent in May – just days after leaving Stamford Bridge.In an emotional statement to announce his Chelsea departure, the 40-year-old said: “I came here with the intention of only staying for a year and it ended up being four years. Not just for me but for my family, too.”My sons play for Chelsea so it’s a source of great pride to be a part of the Chelsea family – literally because my sons are here. I hope they can continue their careers here at this victorious club that many players wish to be part of.”In everything I did here over the four years, I always gave my all. But, unfortunately, everything has a start, a middle and an end. That doesn’t mean that this is a definitive end.”I hope to leave the door open so that in the near future I can return, albeit in another role here.” More

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      Atalanta vs Real Madrid: Get £40 welcome bonus when you stake £10 on football with Tote

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      HOLDERS Real Madrid need to start picking Champions League points up FAST, starting with their midweek trip to Atalanta.Bookmakers Tote are marking the huge game by offering brand new customers a whopping £40 in free bets and bonuses to spend when you sign up and stake £10!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereAtalanta vs Real Madrid: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*How to claim..Tote special offerVisit the Tote website HERE*Register a brand new account using the Promo Code: B10G40Deposit and place your first bet of at least £10 on either horse racing or football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce your Qualifying Bet is settled you will receive a £40 welcome bonusAtalanta vs Real Madrid: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Atalanta vs Real Madrid: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Tote have a fantastic promotion available for brand new customers with a colossal £40 welcome bonus up for grabs.It’s easy to claim. Simply visit the Tote website and register a new account using the Promo Code: B10G40Once that’s sorted, deposit and place your first bet of at least £10 on either racing, football or other sports at odds of Evens or greater.Once your Qualifying Bet is settled — win or lose — you will receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza.Atalanta vs Real Madrid: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply. More

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      ‘I can change the face of this sport’: Barry Hearn reveals failed investment that he regrets the most

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      BARRY HEARN revealed his failed bid to bring gymnastics to the mainstream was his most heartbreaking investment.Hearn, 76, has taken darts, snooker, boxing, pool and tenpin bowling to new heights.Barry Hearn revealed he tried to bring gymnastics to the mainstreamCredit: PA:Press AssociationHearn’s failed attempt to boost gymnastics is his most heartbreaking investmentCredit: GettyAnd the Matchroom Sport president tried to do the same with gymnastics in 2016 but only managed to promote one event.The famous promoter claims the project, which he was very passionate about, never succeeded because of outside interference. Hearn told The Mirror: “I wanted to take over gymnastics, because I think that sport is so brilliant.”I tried two events, but then I bumped into – which I bump into quite a lot – a load of blazers [people in suits].Read More on Gymnastics”When I went into gymnastics, I did a fantastic first event. Then I thought, ‘I can really change the face of this sport’. “And then I just got knocked back [by the governing bodies], because they wanted to keep it to themselves!”I’ve had that with various blazers in various amateur bodies, and it’s very frustrating. I don’t have the time to mess about. I know what I’m doing. I’ve got a reputation built over 50 years. “I can change sports, and I can change people’s lives, but I need everyone to pull together – and so often in sport, they don’t because they’re selfish with their own positions.Most read in Athletics”The people that love their sport but have no real interest in the athletes themselves. And we come from completely different directions. We try and change their lives through money. “I love watching the Olympics, and you should be very proud if you’ve won a medal at the Olympics – but you can’t eat a medal!Barry Hearn sends warning to top darts stars that ‘little Littler Army’ is coming to dominate the sport “We are one of only three countries in the world that don’t pay a bonus for a gold medal, and I find that atrocious. Great Britain – that ‘G’ is looking smaller and smaller. So we need to look after athletes.” More

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      Inside Michail Antonio’s incredible rise from non-league and plans to go into showbiz as star recovers from car crash

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      MICHAIL ANTONIO is recovering in hospital following surgery to a broken leg after a horror car crash.The West Ham star, 34, had to be cut free from his £260,000 Ferrari FF which was ripped apart when it hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on Saturday.West Ham ace Michail Antonio has been candid about his struggles away from footballCredit: ReutersAntonio came through the ranks the hard way – playing non-league footballCredit: The Wimbledon GuardianAntonio had a miraculous escape after crashing his FerrariCredit: UKNIPAntonio had a miraculous escape from the incident, and his club have commented on his well-being.A club statement read: “West Ham United can confirm Michail Antonio has undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following a road traffic accident on Saturday afternoon (7 December 2024).”Michail will continue to be monitored in hospital over the coming days.”Everyone at the Club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the football family at large for the overwhelming support shown since yesterday’s news, as well as extending a heartfelt thank you to the emergency services and first responders who attended to Michail in the immediate aftermath of the incident, and the medical team who continue to aid him in his recovery.”Read more football news”The Club will provide further updates when appropriate.”The outpouring of love from the football community has been massive, with Antonio recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.Away from football, a game he’s not always liked, he has his own BBC podcast alongside fellow Premier League star Callum Wilson called The Footballer’s Football Podcast.Most read in FootballWhen he retires from the game, Antonio has ambitions to get into showbiz.I disliked football so much I prayed for injury, says West Ham hero Michail Antonio as he bravely opens up about therapyIncredible riseAntonio’s story in football began with Tooting & Mitcham United in 2008.Despite the team only competing in a regional league, Antonio went on to climb his way up the football pyramid.After impressing rather swiftly that year, 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. He then went to AFC Wimbledon who wouldn’t stump up his registration fee, so he returned to Tooting.Speaking to Gary Lineker and Micah Richards on the Rest Is Football podcast, he said: “Before I actually signed for Reading I got kicked out of Tooting and Mitcham.”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’.”“So they [Tooting] kicked me out of the club and I ended up going to AFC Wimbledon.”Then AFC Wimbledon refused to pay £7 for my registration fee, and told me to pay it. And I was like: ‘I ain’t paying seven quid!’Since 2015, Antonio has been a key figure for West HamCredit: GettyAntonio snubbed playing for England in favour of Jamaica, where his parents were bornCredit: GettyBehind his biggest success, Antonio was struggling with his divorceCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sunread more sport features“So I ended up going back to Tooting and Mitcham, signing the contract, getting paid, and within like five games of signing my contract, I signed for Reading.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham who were then coached by Slaven Bilic.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.Mental health strugglesAntonio, who snubbed England to play for Jamaica where he’s been capped 21 times, has been very open with his struggles mentally in recent times.On the pitch, he scored success with the Hammers – lifting the Europa Conference League in 2023.However, off it his private life was in turmoil. He divorced wife Debbie, who has been by his bedside since his car crash, around the same time as the most glittering moment of his career.”I was going through my divorce and stuff, and I honestly couldn’t get my head around it,” he told the Original Penguin X Campaign Against Living Miserably Under The Surface podcast.”After we won, the whole team went out, the gaffer (David Moyes) went out, got steaming, a couple of boys didn’t sleep for two days, just got drunk for two days.”I was asleep on the coach and went back to the hotel. I was just mentally drained because of everything that was going on outside of my football and then I went back to the hotel and went to sleep while everyone was out partying.”It wasn’t until probably December where I was in a better place where I was like, ”Oh my God, I’ve won a European championship”.’Antonio struggled mentally after divorcing his ex-wife DebbieCredit: instagramThat moment might not have happenedBefore that, Antonio was struggling with being a footballer and contemplated quitting the game.He recalled a moment he laid in bed alongside Debbie, the mother of his four children, and began to weep.He said: “I don’t like showing emotion and I like dealing with things, but tears were just falling from my eyes in bed.”My Mrs was laying next to me in bed and I didn’t say anything, just tears falling – she looked up and said, ‘Are you alright?’ and I said ‘Yeah, I’m fine’, but she said ‘You can’t be fine, you’re crying’, and I just said ‘I don’t know if I want to play football anymore’.”Antonio continued: “Me talking to my Mrs, my brother and my agent took a bit of the weight off me, enough for me to keep going to training and stuff like that…”That’s entertainmentAntonio was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.”I want your job!” he joked before revealing his future ideal role.He continued: “To be fair I don’t want to go into punditry, I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle… I want Micah’s job!”READ MORE SUN STORIESWith that, he drew more laughter from Lineker and Richards.As such an infectious personality, it’s certainly a career path Antonio would be well suited to.Away from football, Antonio is interested in breaking into the world of entertainmentCredit: GettyAntonio has previously appeared on Sky’s A League of Their OwnAntonio also has his own podcast called Footballer’s Football Podcast with Callum Wilson More