West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta is set to face a hearing regarding allegations of ‘spot-fixing’ later this month, with the Football Association reportedly pushing for a lifetime ban if he is found guilty. The Brazil international has been accused of deliberately receiving four yellow cards in Premier League matches, which is part of a government investigation into organised gambling in his home country.
Despite Paqueta’s strong denials and West Ham’s support, FA officials will reportedly demand a lifetime ban if he is found guilty after an independent commission hearing, expected to last three weeks, as reported by Sky Sports News. The FA and West Ham have not commented on the investigation’s schedule.
The yellow cards in question were received in matches against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023, and Bournemouth last August. According to the FA’s charges, Paqueta allegedly attempted to “influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting.”
Additionally, he was charged with failing to comply with the investigation.
(Image: Getty Images)
But Paqueta expressed shock and discontent at the time, stating: “I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me. For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can,” reports the Mirror.
I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name. Due to the ongoing process, I will not be providing any further comment.”
Newcastle United travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham on Monday night, with Paqueta expected to feature for Graham Potter’s side. He has played 26 times for the Hammers this season, scoring five goals.
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