West Ham United manager David Moyes has highlighted the importance of striker Michail Antonio’s goals against Cypriot side AEK Larnaca.
The Hammers secured a 2-0 win in their Europa Conference League round of 16 first leg tie at the AEK Arena on Thursday night, with Antonio netting both in the final 10 minutes of the second half, first heading in a Said Benrahma cross before sealing a win with a stunning 20-yard strike in first half stoppage.
That duo of goals makes Antonio the Hammers’ top goalscorer this season with nine goals in all competitions, but only three of which have been in the Premier League.
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After the game, Moyes was asked about Antonio’s second goal, a strike not normally associated with Antonio, with the 32-year-old better known for chances inside the box.
Moyes said that he was glad the striker took that second goal and has said that despite the January signing of Danny Ings from Aston Villa, Antonio is still a big player for the club.
"I'm glad he has [got that in him], because we needed that tonight," said Moyes. "I think it will do Mick's confidence the world of good.
"Getting goals this season has not been easy for him. We need him. He's such an important player for us. And we need goals at the club.
"We've brought in Danny (Ings), and there's competition now. Let's hope it pushes them all on to score more goals."
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