[ad_pod ]

Michail Antonio seems to have a personal vendetta against Liverpool, having always proven to be a thorn in their side when he has faced the Reds.

Against the Merseysiders on Monday night, that narrative was no different as the Englishman fired in what was his fifth goal in seven appearances against them, and in doing so put a real dent in their bid to increase their lead at the top of the table.

Whilst the former Nottingham Forest forward took his goal well - it was his only shot throughout the game - it was his work off the ball and an industrial approach from Antonio that made it difficult for Jurgen Klopp's side to dominate the game.

Be sure to check out the incredible story of the man who rose from a Tanzanian refugee camp to become one of Australia's biggest football stars in the video below...

The Hammers, on another day, could've won the game against a Liverpool side far from their best, largely thanks to some impressive numbers by Antonio in a tireless display.

As aforementioned, the 28-year-old hit his side's only goal of the game with his only shot of the match, but he also managed to win a whopping four aerial duels, more than any of his teammates, and more than any player on the pitch but for Virgil van Dijk (seven).

Despite starting as more of a striker, Antonio still managed to defend from the front for Manuel Pellegrini, recording two tackles and two interceptions to go alongside his aerial dominance to truly pester the Reds all over the pitch.

The former Reading and Southampton man has helped blow the title race wide open with his heroic display, which has pleased the masses (barring Liverpool fans) greatly as some were fearful of the Merseyside outfit running away with it.

Additionally, after a dismal showing away to Wolves before Monday's fixture, Antonio ensured that the London Stadium faithful forgot all about that as they witnessed what was a tactical masterclass from Pellegrini, made to work so effectively by Antonio's excellent performance.