West Ham's Lucas Paqueta charged for alleged breaches of FA betting rules

Earlier this season Sandro Tonali was charged by FA for breaking betting rules

Lucas Paqueta of West Ham has been charged by the FA for allegedly breaking the betting regulations.

Paqueta vehemently contests the accusations, which state that the player was intentionally booked “for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market.”

The allegations, which relate to games against Leicester City on November 12, 2022; Aston Villa on March 12, 2023; Leeds United on May 21, 2023; and AFC Bournemouth on August 12, 2023, have the 26-year-old adamant that he is “extremely surprised and upset.”

The FA stated the Brazil international is alleged to have “directly sought 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.”

Paqueta swiftly responded on social media, strongly refuting the allegations in a statement: “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. 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.”

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Additional allegations pertain to two purported violations of “FA Rule F3 concerning purported noncompliance with FA Rule F2.” Paqueta has until June 3rd, 2023, to either address the charges or seek a postponement.

Paqueta had a fantastic season with West Ham, tallying four goals and dishing out six more in the Premier League. He also made an impact during the Hammers’ run in the Europa League, with four goals.

Moyes praised Paqueta’s character prior to his exit from the London Stadium. In August of last year, following the FA’s inquiry, the Brazilian was selected to play against Chelsea.

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