World Cup

Michail Antonio withdraws from Jamaica squad for October's international break

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 07 October 2021

Michail Antonio decides to withdraw from the Jamaica national team squad and will stay in London with West Ham United over the international break.

Michail Antonio has decided to withdraw from the Jamaica national team squad and will stay in London with West Ham United over the international break.

The 31-year-old made his debut for the Reggae Boyz in September, playing for 70 minutes in a 3-0 defeat against Panama, and was then selected to feature in this month's World Cup qualifiers against USA, Canada and Honduras.

However, Antonio has made the decision not to travel to the Caribbean as the striker fears he could pick up an injury during the busy fixture schedule.

Antonio is also aware that he would likely return to London on October 14 at the earliest, just three days before West Ham's Premier League clash with Everton at Goodison Park.

In a statement issued by the Jamaican Football Federation, Antonio said: "I can confirm that, unfortunately, I will not be joining up with the Jamaica national squad for the World Cup qualifying matches this week.

"Myself, West Ham United, and Jamaica have all agreed that, given the logistical and travel difficulties involved at present, it is better for me to remain with the club in London at this time. I remain fully committed to Jamaica and look forward to representing my country in the future."

Once October's international break comes to a conclusion, David Moyes and his players will prepare for a run of seven games in 21 days across the Premier League, Europa League and EFL Cup.