Lucas Paqueta faces lifetime-ban charge from football following betting breaches
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is facing a serious threat that would end his football career. This after the FA recommended him be punished with a lifetime ban from football, per The Sun.
The Sun reported that Paqueta deliberately made himself booked in four games against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth. If found guilty, there would be no chance for him to appeal the charge.
The report suggested that 60 people placed bets for Paqueta to receive yellow in those four matches with a range of £7 to £400. The bets potentially would lead to a £100,000 combined winnings.
Lucas Paqueta will fight for his name
What makes it hard for Paqueta was, according to the investigation, the bets were tracked to take place near Rio de Janeiro. The player himself has denied the accusation and vowed to fight for his name.
“I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me,” he said on social media via Goal. “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.”
Paqueta’s legal team is preparing a response to the FA’s charge. They were initially given a deadline of 3 June, which has now passed. The process is still ongoing as the 26-year old is joining his national team for Copa America preparation.
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