Tomas Soucek dedicated his goal in West Ham’s decisive 2-1 win over Wolves to Michail Antonio and revealed that the players had a video call with their injured teammate ahead of Monday’s match.
The 34-year-old Hammers striker remains in hospital after being involved in a car accident on Saturday.
Antoni on Sunday he underwent surgery for a lower limb fracture and will continue to receive care for the next few days.
Soucek and Jarrod Bowen scored West Ham beat Wolves for a vital win to move nine points clear of the relegation zone and ease the pressure on underrated head coach Julen Lopetegui.
Asked about Antonio, midfielder Soucek told Sky Sports: “The goal was for him. I said before the match that I really wanted to score even more today.
“He’s been here since I got here – he’s really my favorite. I said it would be hard for me to play without him.
“I’m happy he’s doing well, but it’s for him. He’s a huge player and he’s in my heart.”
The 29-year-old Czech international was worried when he heard the news of Antonio’s accident, adding: “It was really difficult for us. I was with my children and saw this information over the phone. I messaged everyone asking what happened and what he was like.
“I was very afraid of what would happen. It was a really difficult week for him, his family and us.
“We had a video call with him and the entire team before the match. He smiled at us and gave us his best. I can’t wait to visit him. He’s a really cute and funny guy. a few jokes before the match and wished us all the best.”
Jamaica international Antonio is West Ham’s all-time leading goalscorer in the Premier League with 68 goals in 268 league appearances.
Soucek raised nine fingers to signify Antonio’s shirt number as he celebrated the opener against second-division Wolves, while captain Bowen also raised Antonio’s shirt after scoring the winning goal in the 72nd minute.
Antonio joined the club in 2015 and Soucek added: “He is probably one of the best players West Ham have had.
“He will be with us soon. These things can happen, but hopefully things will get even better soon.”
