Lucas Paqueta ban: West Ham figures ‘fear’ over behaviour emerge in new twist
West Ham United are increasingly worried about Lucas Paqueta as his legal battle with the FA drags on.
Paqueta is accused of deliberately getting himself booked in four different Premier League games between November 2022 and August 2023.
The Brazil international has maintained that he is innocent, with David Moyes even agreeing to testify in his favour during a three-week hearing in April.
However, the attacker faces the prospect of being punished with a lifetime ban from football if found guilty of the wrongdoing that he has been accused of.
West Ham could rest Paqueta after Tottenham incident
The FA’s hearing was adjourned last month after the three-week slot, but has now resumed with a view to concluding it next week, according to The Telegraph.
Meanwhile, Paqueta broke down in tears after being booked for a foul on Mikey Moore during West Ham’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham on Sunday, 4 May.
He had to be consoled by Jarrod Bowen and the referee, Michael Oliver, as he was evidently distraught after being shown the yellow card.
The former Lyon ace was replaced by James Ward-Prowse five minutes later.
However, speaking after the game, Graham Potter insisted that Paqueta was just upset about the Hammers’ disappointing season.
The West Ham hierarchy, though, are concerned about Paqueta’s well-being and fear his emotions on Sunday are a result of how he has been affected by the ongoing legal battle.
The newspaper reported via their website on Wednesday (7 May) that the East London outfit must now consider whether to rest the 27-year-old for the rest of their three games.
Potter to rest Paqueta amid FA case
Potter will have the ultimate say on whether he should rest Paqueta for West Ham‘s remaining games this season.
The player has remained professional in the face of adversity and continued to train with the team with professionalism.
| Team | Venue | Date |
| Manchester United | Away | 11 May |
| Nottingham Forest | Home | 18 May |
| Ipswich Town | Away | 25 May |
However, considering West Ham have nothing else to play for this season, there is no harm in taking the Brazilian away from the firing line.
A verdict over the legal case is expected to be out in the next five weeks, but it could be delayed further if Paqueta is found guilty, as they would then need to determine the severity of his punishment.