Julen Lopetegui dedicated a crucial win to Michail Antonio after West Ham put aside the striker’s horrific car accident and saved their manager’s job by beating Wolves 2-1 on an emotional evening.

Antonio, who is recovering in hospital after surgery on a broken leg, was in such good spirits that he was able to speak to his team-mates via video link before kick-off.

It had been a difficult pre-season for West Ham, who were rocked by news of the striker’s accident on Saturday afternoon. Lopetegui, always close to the bag, understood the importance of a win which increased the pressure on Wolves manager Gary O’Neil.

“We’re happy for the fans,” said the West Ham manager. “We dedicate the victory above all to Mikhail and his family. It was very hard. We love Mikhail very much. He is a special person. He is strong and I am sure he will overcome this and come back. The best thing we can do today is win. We are very happy about the three points.”

West Ham honored his teammate with special training tops and Jarrod Bowen, who scored the winning goal, unveiled a shirt with Antonio’s name on the back after the goal. The conversation with Antonio before the game also provided inspiration.

“We had a little contact with him,” Lopetegui said. “He enjoyed doing it. He wasn’t at his best, but he still kept his sense of humor. It was a special moment for us before the game. We have many reasons to win games, but this is special.

“He had a serious accident, but he has the opportunity to come back. He is alive and we are happy because the pictures were terrible. We have to enjoy our professional life. It can change in a moment. We have to concentrate on our daily work. Sometimes it’s hard. It’s a good example for my young players.”

O’Neil, whose side remain in the bottom three, vowed to keep fighting. However, there is a strong chance that Wolves will release the 41-year-old on Tuesday. “I understand the noise and the scrutiny,” O’Neil said. “Last season we were on the verge of relegation and we achieved incredible things. The players give everything. They still fight for me. I still fight for the fans. I’m disappointed.”