West Ham's Michail Antonio Misses Jamaica's Match with the USA Due to Lost Passport

Antonio's Absence a Blow to Jamaica's World Cup Hopes

West Ham United forward Michail Antonio will miss Jamaica's crucial World Cup qualifier against the United States on Thursday after losing his passport, manager Theodore Whitmore has confirmed.

The 31-year-old was due to join up with the Reggae Boyz squad this week but has been unable to travel due to the missing document.

Whitmore expressed his disappointment at Antonio's absence, saying it was a "big blow" to the team's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup in Qatar next year.

Antonio's Form a Concern for Jamaica

Antonio has been in good form for West Ham this season, scoring three goals in his last five Premier League appearances.

His goals have helped the Hammers climb to fifth in the table and within touching distance of the Champions League places.

Antonio's absence will be a major concern for Whitmore, who is already without a number of key players for the match against the USA.

Jamaica Facing Uphill Battle to Qualify for World Cup

Jamaica are currently fourth in the CONCACAF qualifying group, four points behind leaders Mexico and three behind the USA.

They need to finish in the top three to qualify for the World Cup and a defeat to the USA would make their task even more difficult.

Whitmore will be hoping that Antonio can recover his passport in time to join up with the squad for their next match against El Salvador on Sunday.