London : Sam Allardyce marked his first squad announcement as England manager on Sunday by including uncapped West Ham United midfielder Michail Antonio in a 23-man party for next week’s World Cup qualifier in Slovakia.
Antonio was included on the same day he scored for the Hammers in their 3-1 loss away to Premier League leaders Manchester City.
The 26-year-old has adjusted well to life in the Premier League since joining the Hammers from Nottingham Forest a year ago. He scored nine goals in 32 appearances for the London club last season, while his two most recent Hammers games have seen Antonio head in against both Bournemouth and City.
“I think he’s in outstanding form,” Allardyce told the Football Association’s website as he explained his decision to select Antonio. Now he is looking forward to seeing Antonio complete the same trip.
Meanwhile an emotional Antonio told West Ham’s website: “I’m overwhelmed. It’s just one of those things that I’ve always dreamt of playing for England as a kid, so now for it to happen after I’ve worked my way from non-league to where I am now, I am just so happy.”
