Back to the West Ham United Newsfeed

'It was so emotional': Ukrainian Andriy Yarmolenko in tears following his goal in West Ham's win over Aston Villa with the forward grateful for fans' support since Russia's invasion of his homeland

West Ham United forward Andriy Yarmolenko was left in tears after netting on his return to football in a 2-1 win over Aston Villa.

The Ukraine forward was back in the Hammers squad for the first time since being granted compassionate leave due to the war in his homeland.

Yarmolenko, who has made over 100 international appearances for his country, received a standing ovation from both sets of fans as he came on as a 53rd-minute substitute for Michail Antonio.

The 32-year-old, whose family are still in Ukraine, was in tears after firing West Ham into the lead in the 70th minute.