Jamaican footballer Michail Antonio, discharged from hospital days ago, said he was just grateful to be alive.

The 34-year-old West Ham striker met in a horrific car accident on December 7 in Essex where his leg was broken after he was dug out of his car after being trapped inside.

The Reggae Boy had surgery a few weeks ago but was released on December 31.

“Every year around this time, I’m asked what I’m grateful for, and every year I’ve struggled to find the right words. But this year, I know exactly what I’m grateful for: being alive,” he posted on Instagram.

“I want to take a moment to acknowledge something I’ve come to realise. I’ve spent so many years taking life for granted. I made plans for the next day, the next year, always assuming tomorrow was guaranteed. I’ve seen close friends pass away, witnessed others face near-death experiences, and even then, I didn’t fully grasp just how precious life is,” he added, while posting a picture of himself on crutches.

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A post shared by Michail Antonio (@michailantonio)

“What I’ve been through recently has opened my eyes. Life is fragile, and every single moment matters. I’m so grateful to God for giving me the strength to keep going and for allowing me to still be here,” said Antonio.

Antonio is West Ham’s all-time top scorer netting 68 goals in 268 games.

The powerful striker who was born in London to Jamaican parents, has scored five goals for the Reggae Boyz in 21 games.

He had some words for the persons who helped throughout his traumatic experience.
“To the emergency services, the NHS, the Air Ambulance, everyone at the Royal London and Cromwell hospitals and everyone from top to bottom at West Ham United FC. The medical team, the board, all of the staff, my teammates and the amazing West Ham fans… I honestly could not have got through this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

He continued: “To my loved ones who stood by my side throughout everything, I can’t express how much you mean to me”.
“Lastly, to the whole football community thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me. It has truly meant the world. I love you all and I am endlessly grateful for every one of you,” said Antonio.
“Happy new year and I’ll be back on that pitch soon,” he concluded.

It’s not the first time the Jamaican international has been involved in an accident after crashing his £210,000 Lamborghini into a front garden while dressed as a snowman on Christmas day 2019.