West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is still being investigated by the FA in relation to betting allegations, with ExWHUEmployee providing an update.
Our Hammers talisman, who has been in stunning form for West Ham so far this season, scoring again at the weekend, is being investigated in relation to suspicious betting patterns from his native Brazil, which saw various accounts set up and bets placed on Paqueta receiving yellow cards last season.
The investigation by the Football Association, which commenced in August, is currently still ongoing – with the club of the firm belief that the player is innocent – although there is significant concern that if found guilty then a lengthy ban could be realised.
Reporting on The West Ham Way Podcast, our co-host and club insider ExWHUEmployee has stated that the ‘top source’ at the club provided an update, which highlighted the growing concerns from West Ham’s hierarchy.
“I have spoken to the top person surrounding this and what I got back was an indication that they are worried, as the investigation is still ongoing,” stated Ex. “Although they do believe he is completely innocent.”
In a quote from Ex’s source, the communcation stated:
The FA are still investigating, worst thing is IF the FA charge him to the test for conviction is quite low (ie balance of probability), not like a criminal case.
The player has never gambled in his life and doesn’t even understand gambling.
Investigation relates to some people with a vague connection to him betting on him getting yellow cards in 5 games.
As has also been reported, the club stand behind Paqueta and wish for him to stay for the long term. Also Ex reported that the player is very happy in east London, loves playing for West Ham and in particular has a very strong relationship with David Moyes – who he sees as a father figure.
Ex will be keeping fans up to date on the progress of the situation as it develops further, on The West Ham Way Patreon.
