West Ham United v Brentford: David Moyes job boost as Lucas Paqueta sends social media message
West Ham boss David Moyes appears to have an easy decision to make over the selection of Lucas Paqueta against Brentford.
Paqueta has not played for the Irons since limping off the field during the 1-1 draw with Bristol City in the FA Cup third round on 7 January.
The Brazil international has been back in training at Rush Green for the past two weeks, although Moyes has been reluctant to rush him back.
Lucas Paqueta hints at injury return against Brentford
However, a post by Manchester City-linked Paqueta on his personal Twitter page late on Sunday [25 February] suggests he is now ready to play a part.
“See you tomorrow Irons,” Paqueta posted, along with a graphic advertising the match with Brentford at London Stadium.
Should Paqueta be ready, which this post certain suggests is the case, then Moyes has no option but to start the brilliant playmaker.
It is no coincidence that United’s form has fallen off a cliff in the absence of Paqueta, who brings something unique to the final third.
Indeed, he assisted five goals in five games prior to sustaining his injury against Bristol City, despite only playing 14 minutes in that match.
David Moyes future still uncertain at West Ham
While nobody wants to see Paqueta suffer a setback, Moyes is not exactly in a position to give Paqueta 15 minutes here and there.
West Ham’s form has been diabolical in 2024 and they need to use this London derby with Brentford as a chance to turn things around.
If Moyes does not put in Paqueta from the start, it is a decision he may well live to regret.
Moyes confirmed last week he is pondering whether to sign a new deal, but the longer this winless run goes on, the less backing he will have.
With Paqueta back in the side, it will hopefully lead to an upturn in results. If that is the case, that contract will almost certainly be signed.
To put Paqueta’s importance into further context, the Irons have won just one out of 12 games they have played without him this season.
The topic of the Scotsman’s future may divide the fanbase, but absolutely nobody will have any complaints if Paqueta starts against the Bees.
In other West Ham news, a supercomputer has predicted the Hammers’ chances of winning the Europa League after the last-16 draw was made.
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