Micah Richards shares Lucas Paqueta verdict after absolutely unbelievable transfer at West Ham United
Micah Richards has shared his verdict on the early struggles of West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta as he continues to strive for consistency under David Moyes.
Writing for the Daily Mail in their print edition [Verdict, April 03, pg 9], Richards urged Hammers fans to stick by the “absolutely unbelievable” signing from the summer.
The Brazilian international attacking midfielder showed signs of moving through the gears in the crucial 1-0 win over Southampton which means the Irons now sit in 14th place in the Premier League table due to goal difference, just one point above the relegation places.
He wrote: “My eye kept being drawn to Lucas Paqueta when I watched West Ham beat Southampton yesterday.
“Things never quite worked for him, as has been the case for most of the season. It’s disappointed me because I thought it was absolutely unbelievable when they managed to sign a Brazilian of his class.
“Paqueta has suffered due to the system West Ham have played and because the team has struggled. All I would say is this: keep the faith. I hope he flourishes in the same way Nigel de Jong did when he arrived at Manchester City.
“There were some eyebrows being raised in the dressing room during Nigel’s early struggles but those of us who worked closely with him knew he was class. Paqueta is class, too, and can go on to be a massive player.”
Patience and priorities
Paqueta is a player of undoubted quality. His track record at Lyon, particularly in European competition, as well as his place in the Brazil national squad is testament to that.
His form has been underwhelming to date but that hasn’t been helped by the Hammers’ poor Premier League campaign however time is still on the side of the 25-year-old. 11 games of the season remain whilst Moyes’ men also have a realistic shot at glory in the Europa Conference League.
On that basis, Richards is right to ask the fans to get behind Paqueta in his first season at the club and one that he can still positively impact in West Ham’s favour.
If the Samba Star can continue his form from yesterday in the win over Southampton, then there is a real chance that he can become a hero much earlier than many expected.
Paqueta was everywhere and he needs to use that as a catalyst for the rest of the season.