Breel Embolo spoke to the media in AS Monaco's press conference ahead of facing Aston Villa in the Champions League

Antonio has been ruled out of action since the start of December following his car crash in Essex, and Embolo is seen as a superb long-term successor for the Hammers stalwart, with a playing style 'likened' to Antonio, and he's seen as 'highly-rated'.

Monaco missed the chance to move level on points with second-placed Marseille in Ligue 1 as they were held to a 2-2 draw at Nantes on Friday despite a second-half comeback.

Monaco came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Nantes, maintaining their position in Ligue 1 and closing the gap on leaders PSG.

In a thrilling Ligue 1 match, Monaco drew 2-2 against Nantes after coming back from a two-goal deficit. Matthis Abline and Kelvin Amian scored early for Nantes, but Monaco's Breel Embolo and Mohammed Salisu quickly equalized.

Please Note: All times UK. Tables are subject to change. The BBC is not responsible for any changes that may be made. Manager: Antoine Kombouaré Formation: 4 - 1 - 4 - 1 Manager: Adi Hütter ...

Monaco were on course for a third defeat in six Ligue 1 matches, but fought back for a share of the spoils against Nantes.

Black Stars centre-back Mohammed Salisu rescued a point for AS Monaco in their Ligue 1 with his first goal in France against FC Nantes on Friday evening.

Adi Hutter's Monaco have 31 points, miss chance to level on points with 2nd place Olympique Marseille in standings - Anadolu Ajansı

NANTES, France — Nantes has lifted itself out the Ligue 1 relegation zone after a 2-2 draw against high-flying visitor Monaco. Nantes took a two-goal lead through Matthis Abline and Kelvin Amian ...

as Switzerland striker Breel Embolo turned and fired into the roof of the net. Former Southampton centre-back Mohammed Salisu levelled for the principality club on the hour mark, heading in his first Ligue 1 goal. In a dramatic finale which somehow failed ...

Nantes had won just one of their last 13 league games, but they took the lead in the 12th minute with Sorba Thomas setting up Matthis Abline.