#PLStories- Michail Antonio reflects on what making his pro debut at Leeds United’s Elland Road taught him #WHUFC #LUFC

Michail Antonio came late to professional football as the now West Ham striker was signed by Reading whilst playing non-league football with Tooting & Mitcham United.

Michail Antonio said: “My debut with Cheltenham was crazy. Leeds at Elland Road. 22,000. I’ve walked out and the roar, it was unbelievable, it was unreal. Going from non-league to professional football, within three months I’m at Elland Road in League One. It was an amazing day. Even though after twelve minutes I tore three ligaments in my ankle, it’s still today an amazing day for me.”

Although the injury he picked up kept him out for a number of weeks, Antonio again referenced the atmosphere in explaining why the day was so important to him.

Michail Antonio added: “It was still an amazing day. Me playing my first professional game after 18 years of trying. Just the roar of the Leeds fans as I was walking out. It made me realise how much I loved football.”

Antonio played in front of a packed Elland Road in the Premier League this season and managed to score a late winner after West Ham turned the game around following a first-half goal from Raphinha.

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