West Ham boss David Moyes has confirmed that Michail Antonio will miss Saturday’s game against Liverpool.
Antonio has been in great form for the Hammers and his injury is a big blow for them ahead of the clash with Jurgen Klopp’s side.
He is struggling with a hamstring problem and there are conflicting reports over when he is likely to return.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday morning, Moyes said: “Michail has been great for us and has played really well
“He came off against Spurs and he felt it against Manchester City too. We don’t think it’s too bad but it’s enough to keep him out of tomorrow’s game.
“It’s near enough the first injury we’ve had. “We’ve kept the boys in really good condition, the medical team and the recovery has been great.
“Maybe we’ve been lucky, but we hope it stays that way because we need the players to be fit.”
Champions Liverpool are strong favourites this weekend but have suffered their own injury blow, with key defender Virgil van Dijk having recently been ruled out with a long-term knee injury.
“Obviously you’d rather play Liverpool without Virgil van Dijk, but maybe they’re looking at it in the same way with us and Michail Antonio,” Moyes said.
“Playing the champions will always be a tough game. We have to try to make the most of it and I think we’re in a good place. The players have got confidence and I hope we can go and show it.”