Dean Ashton savages West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta after Brazil defeat
Dean Ashton was left far from impressed with West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta after Brazil suffered a quarter-final defeat against Croatia in the World Cup.
Brazil, one of the favourites to win the tournament, were eliminated for the sixth consecutive time by a European team, as they lost in the penalty shootout after it ended 1-1 at extra time.
Ashton suggested on talkSPORT [9 December] that Croatian midfielders, Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic, taught Paqueta a lesson on the pitch and that he may as well have a “school uniform” on, suggesting he was dire on the pitch.
“Lucas Paqueta may as well have a school uniform on, because Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic are teaching him an absolute lesson in midfield. They’re just schooling him,” said Ashton on talkSPORT.
Bad luck
Brazil were one of the favourites for the World Cup but they had to suffer a heartbreak yet again.
It’s been 20 years since the last time they lifted the World Cup trophy.
The Selecao had 21 attempts on goal but they struggled to break down the Croatian defence. In the end, the goal came from Neymar who produced a moment of sublime brilliance.
However, in the 117th time, Croatia found a way to equalise and took the game to the penalties.
Dominik Livakovic, who was sensational against Japan, saved the opening effort from Rodrygo as Croatia moved to the semi-finals of this competition.
Paqueta had a torrid time in the middle of the park. He failed to make an impact, and Ashton was absolutely right here. He was criticised by the Brazilian press for his underwhelming performance.
Modric especially was outstanding once again for Croatia, and Brazil struggled to control the midfield.
It’s a learning experience for Paqueta, and West Ham fans will be pleased that he will return quickly to the club and get much needed rest ahead of the Boxing Day clash against Arsenal.