David Moyes has revealed that he expects Michail Antonio to be fit for West Ham’s trip to Tottenham on Sunday despite the striker playing 119 minutes against Sevilla on Thursday.
Antonio has proven to be a thorn in Tottenham’s side on plenty of occasions in the past and continues to be one of West Ham’s most important players.
The 31-year-old hobbled off early in the second half of the Hammers’ 2-1 win over Aston Villa last week but the forward recovered in time to complete 119 minutes against Sevilla to help his side to a 2-0 win and seal progression to the quarterfinals of the Europa League.
Moyes has now revealed the experienced striker has improved his fitness levels this season and insisted there is no reason why he should not be fit to start the London derby at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium despite his exertions on Thursday.
When asked if Antonio could feature against Spurs, the West Ham boss told Football.London: “I do not see any reason why he should not be [fit]. The biggest thing is just trying to keep Mich away from any hamstring injuries. That’s what we’re always mindful of.
“But already he is way ahead of the number of games he normally plays [in a season] so physically he is getting better and that is really important and he is looking after himself much better as well.”
Spurs Web Opinion
West Ham’s game plan will be to defend deep and make it difficult for Spurs to create chances.
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Antonio is crucial to the way they are set up as the 31-year-old gives them a potential out ball, given his ability to hold up the ball and run at the Tottenham defenders.
Conte’s men would make life a lot easier for themselves tomorrow if they get the first goal.
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