Lucas Paqueta doubts emerge for West Ham United v Chelsea after ‘media frenzy’ – ExWHUemployee
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is expected to start against Chelsea, but the media frenzy around alleged betting breaches will mean David Moyes will have to check on his state of mind, according to ExWHUemployee.
The West Ham news source shared via his Patreon on 20 August that the ongoing situation with Paqueta could cause issues for Moyes, and checks will be carried out before the game to make sure he is fine to play.
Allegations have claimed that Paqueta is now being investigated by the FA for alleged breaches of betting rules surrounding a yellow card the player received in a game against Aston Villa in March [Daily Mail, 18 August].
ExWHUemployee adds that James Ward-Prowse could start with Edson Alvarez more likely to be on the bench.
West Ham need him for now
Irrespective of the allegations that have been placed on Paqueta in the last few days, he will still be eligible to play for the Hammers, and he will do as the club need him at his best.
Before the media frenzy began, Paqueta was being linked with a move to Premier League Champions Manchester City, and West Ham’s outright reluctance to sell was a display of how highly they value their star man and intend to use him as much as they can this season.
As seen with Brentford striker Ivan Toney, who was found to be in breach of betting regulations and handed a lengthy ban, Paqueta will be able to play for the Hammers until a decision is made.
The Brazilian has a notable impact on West Ham’s side, and they may struggle without him. He is their most expressive and creative player and plays a big role in their chance creation, so Moyes will understandably be reluctant to leave him out unless he absolutely has to.
In other West Ham news, one new player may be in the stands to watch the game v Chelsea.