‘This man is on fire’: Micah Richards says one West Ham player made him ‘jump out’ of his chair

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In his column for The Daily Mail, Micah Richards heaped praise on West Ham United striker Michail Antonio.

The 31-year-old has been brilliant recently. He is undoubtedly one of West Ham’s best players, but he has now stepped up on the international stage as well.

Antonio starred for Jamaica in the international break. His overall performances were top class on their own, but his thunderbolt from about 30 yards showed the world how much he has improved over the years.

Richards admitted that he, like many of us, jumped out of his chair on seeing Antonio’s goal for his country a few days ago.

Micah Richards: Michail Antonio is on fire

He wrote: “Plenty of super goals to enjoy during the international break but none made me jump out of my chair like Michail Antonio’s blast for Jamaica against the United States.

“This man is on fire! I remember playing against him when he was at Nottingham Forest, he was strong and quick but I never expected him to progress as he has done. What an absolutely fantastic story this has been. I love how down to earth he is and how he genuinely enjoys it all.

“West Ham’s owners laid on a private jet to get him back quicker for today’s game at Wolves. He deserves it for the work he has invested and his dedication to self-improvement.

“He is one of the top strikers in the division right now and there can be no higher compliment.”

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Antonio’s story really is admirable. Even the most supportive West Ham fans didn’t really believe that he had what it takes to become one of the best strikers in the Premier League. He has proven many people wrong now.

In his 13 appearances for the Hammers this season, Antonio has scored seven goals and has provided four assists. That is a sensational return, and his stunner during the break will only give him more confidence.

West Ham take on Wolves this afternoon and Antonio will be the key man for David Moyes. The 31-year-old is yet to score a goal against the Wanderers in 10 appearances, but considering the form he has been in, it would be silly to bet against him today.