Michail Antonio was involved in a car crash last Saturday (Image: Getty / X)
has revealed he plans to give Michail Antonio a visit following the striker’s horror car crash.
Antonio was involved in the accident last weekend, with the 34-year-old rushed straight to hospital.
Lopetegui dedicated West Ham’s victory on Monday night against Wolves to Antonio, with the Spaniard issuing a further update ahead of the weekend fixtures.
Speaking on Friday afternoon, Lopetegui said: “We are going to visit him today or tomorrow. The main thing is we are happy he is recovering very well. We are very close to him and his family, and we wish him the best.
“The nice thing is that Michail was able to talk to us ahead of the Wolves game. The focus for him is to recover – firstly as a man, before a player again.”
It was revealed earlier this week that drink and drugs had both been ruled out as potential causes for the crash that happened in Essex last weekend.
As per sources close to : “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.”
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West Ham players issued tributes to Michail Antonio on Monday night (Image: Getty)
Back on the pitch, West Ham still have plenty of work to do before Lopetegui can start sitting comfortably.
The win against Wolves was only their second since the beginning of September, with Lopetegui pleading for his players to be more consistent.
He added: “Consistency is always important. We don’t look back, we have to focus on the next challenge. Despite having a small challenge this week we will be as ready as possible for Monday…
“There is always pressure, because we’re talking about the . In the same way each match is an opportunity, and we are working to be ready to show our best against Bournemouth.”
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There had been suggestions Lopetegui might’ve been sacked had they lost on Monday night, but the ex-Real Madrid coach has instead reiterated his commitment to the club long-term.
On his time as a Hammer so far, he said: “I am enjoying my work, always. I love being here and managing West Ham.
“We didn’t have the start we wanted, but I think we are getting better, and we are working to get to the desired level. I am happy with the commitment of the players, and I’m enjoying my work every day.”
West Ham go in search of first back-to-back wins in the this season against Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.