West Ham's Paqueta attacks FA after red card debacle
West Ham's Lucas Paqueta has accused the English Football Association of a lack of support in an extraordinary outburst after he was sent off against Liverpool.
The Brazil midfielder was shown two yellow cards for dissent in quick succession by referee Darren England during his side’s 2-0 defeat.
Paqueta had an FA investigation into spot-fixing allegations hanging over him for two years after he was accused of getting booked deliberately for betting purposes.
He was cleared of the charges in July, but the probe still cost him a likely move to Manchester City two summers ago.
The emotional 28-year-old has now taken to social media to criticise the FA for a not providing him with "psychological support".
Paqueta did not go quietly
He wrote on X: "I understand that now I have to come across as the villain; it’s hard to live with everything that’s been caused in my life and in my psyche!
"I’ll keep trying to ensure they don’t affect me even more. This doesn’t justify my expulsion, and for that I apologise to the fans and my team-mates!"
Then, in response to a Sky Sports Premier League post in which co-commentator Rob Green brands his red card "ridiculous behaviour", he added: "It’s ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation.
"Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring! I’m sorry if I’m not perfect."
The FA has been approached for a comment.
West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo will discuss the incident with Paqueta.
"It’s hard to play against a team like Liverpool with one man less," he said.
"I will not go much further on comments of the situation. I hope you understand.
"Just allow me to speak with Lucas first and try to understand. I want to have a private conversation, to try to understand.
"I think it’s unfair not to make any kind of comment without a chance to speak with him."
