Ex-West Ham striker Michail Antonio returns to English football with Watford

Former West Ham striker Michail Antonio has returned to English football, signing a one-year deal at Championship side Watford.

Antonio last played for West Ham in December 2024 before suffering a string of serious injuries in a car crash that preceded his exit from the club.

The 36-year-old last turned out for Qatari side Al Sailiya but made just four appearances for the club after joining earlier this year.

"It's a good set of boys here," Antonio told Watford's club website. "They are focused and ready to show their abilities this season.

"Watford is a big club and hopefully I can come in and bring success and help wherever I can.

"I've scored a few goals against Watford! So hopefully I can score some for Watford now when I'm fully up to speed."

Antonio scored 83 goals in 323 appearances in a 10-year spell at West Ham before leaving the club in 2025.

Watford sit 12th in the Championship with two wins, two draws and two defeats from their six games so far.

Antonio is waiting on international clearance to feature in Watford's home clash against Stoke on Saturday.

- EFL Championship table

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