Paqueta, West Ham
(Credit: Imago)
Carla Devine
Tue 1 April 2025 7:41, UK
Lucas Paqueta has a cloud surrounding him at West Ham United.
The Hammers return to Premier League action with a trip to Wolves on Tuesday (1 April), with both sides looking fairly safe from relegation.
Paqueta is back available from injury, but the Brazilian is still in the middle of his hearing over alleged spot-fixing in the Premier League.
Graham Potter smiling
Potter may not have Paqueta available. (Credit: Imago)
Paqueta update ahead of West Ham v Wolves
The trial investigating Paqueta’s alleged betting scandal is now underway, which is putting the player under plenty of scrutiny.
The West Ham man has denied any wrongdoing after being accused of getting booked on purpose in four Premier League games to influence the outcomes of bets.
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As the trial has no outcome as of yet, the attacker is allowed to continue playing for West Ham as it stands, although he knows the possibility of serious punishment is hanging over his head.
Season Appearances Goals Assists
2024/25 25 4 0
2023/24 31 4 6
2022/23 28 4 3
Lucas Paqueta’s form for West Ham.
The Irons’ game against Wolves is Paqueta’s first since his trial got started, and according to the Daily Mail (1 April), his side are leaving the decision to play with him.
With the worst-case scenario of this case being a lifetime ban, there is said to be no pressure being put on the Brazilian in East London.
West Ham
West Ham are waiting for the outcome of the Paqueta trial. (Credit: Imago)
West Ham and Paqueta are waiting anxiously for outcome
Even at times when Graham Potter has looked as though he has turned a corner with his West Ham side, the consistency has been lacking, and they have struggled to get going.
Therefore, the manager will be keen to have his best players available in the hope of picking up some points and mathematically securing their Premier League survival as soon as possible.
That being said, you can understand the decision of whether he plays being left in Paqueta’s court, because if he is not in the right frame of mind, it will be like having one less player for West Ham.
The current situation leaves the Hammers in a sticky position heading into the summer transfer window, as some activity may rest on the outcome of the trial.
For now, though, the boss will just have to use the best players he has available.
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