Jarrod Bowen faces a potentially lengthy spell out of action after suffering a fractured foot during West Ham’s 5-0 defeat to Liverpool on Sunday. The forward was substituted during the second half of the thrashing at the London Stadium.
“West Ham United can confirm Jarrod Bowen sustained a fractured foot injury in Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Liverpool,” a club statement read. “The injury to his left foot, picked up in the first half at London Stadium, will sideline the Hammers captain heading into the New Year.”
Bowen has been a key player for West Ham again this season, scoring six goals in all competitions as the team have generally struggled under Julen Lopetegui. His absence represents a huge blow for the Spaniard as he continues to face scrutiny over his position having replaced David Moyes in the summer. West Ham travel to Manchester City on Saturday 13th in the Premier League, having won only two of their past seven fixtures.
Bowen revealed he had sustained his injury during the first half of the game against Liverpool but tried to play on. “Unfortunately in the first half of our game on Sunday I suffered a fracture to a bone in my foot,” the 28-year-old wrote on Instagram. “As always I tried to fight on and continue playing until I physically couldn’t.
“Injuries happen in football, but I’m already looking forward to getting back out there as soon as possible. See you all soon.”
Michail Antonio, meanwhile, was discharged from hospital just after Christmas as he continues his recovery following a car crash earlier in December.
The 34-year-old Jamaica international needed surgery on a lower limb fracture after being involved in a road traffic accident in Essex on 7 December, and is expected to face a lengthy spell of rehabilitation.
Antonio had been able to speak to his Irons’ teammates via a video call from his hospital bed before they beat Wolves, and was also later visited by the squad and Julen Lopetegui.
West Ham players wore “Antonio 9” shirts while warming up and ahead of kick-off at the London Stadium, with the kit signed by the players – including Antonio – then auctioned off with the proceeds going to the NHS and Air Ambulances UK.
Proceeds of close to £60,000 will be donated to the charities by the club, with the board having matched the amount raised from the auction.
A statement from West Ham read: “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.”
