FA made to look foolish after Lucas Paqueta developments as West Ham star told not to sue
Lucas Paqueta has had a turbulent time at West Ham United over the past couple of seasons.
Paqueta was subject to alleged betting offences by the FA, which has understandably hindered his performances.
Had he been found guilty of spot-fixing, the FA were preparing to hand Paqueta a lifetime ban from football.
Paqueta was cleared of any wrongdoing by an independent commission earlier this summer, a decision which came as a relief to both the player and his lawyers.
With Paqueta’s future clarified as he stayed at West Ham despite interest from Aston Villa, more details have emerged from the midfielder’s hearing.
Lucas Paqueta told not to sue as low burden of proof revealed
Paqueta has been advised against seeking legal action following being cleared of betting allegations.
The Brazilian can pursue legal action against the FA should he wish to, but will also want to refocus on his football after a troubled 16 months.
Martin Samuel has urged the midfielder that further legal action is not the best route to take, but that he has every right to be angry after another disaster by English football’s governing body.
Writing in The Times, he said: “It has always been problematic as that the burden of proof in football cases is so low.
“John Terry was cleared in Westminster magistrates’ court of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand, but was found guilty by the FA and banned for four matches. The stigma around that decision without doubt impacted his career.”
He later added: “The FA was made to look foolish by a judgement that as good as shredded their argument, but the system itself is unfit for purpose.
“There is talk of Paqueta suing, but he would be wise to focus on his football, rather than further legal distractions. He has every right to be angry, though.”
- Read more: West Ham news round-up: Lucas Paqueta sends message, teammate ruled out of international duty
Lucas Paqueta needs to focus on his football
Paqueta’s legal battles have clearly hindered his performances on the pitch, and as a result, West Ham have been sliding down the Premier League table.
The Brazilian has been poor compared to his start at West Ham, with the midfielder still looking to establish his role in the side once again.
| Lucas Paqueta at West Ham | Total |
| Appearances | 124 |
| Goals | 21 |
| Assists | 14 |
With his legal issues now over, Paqueta has zero excuses to not perform in a Hammers side that desperately needs his output to survive.
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