Lucas Paqueta has been left in turmoil over his potential lifetime ban from football, as he remains a doubt to play for West Ham.
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Brazilian at centre of spot-fixing trialWants a resolution by the end of the weekWest Ham face Wolves on Tuesday Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Per the Daily Mail, Paqueta could be absent from West Ham's clash with Wolves due to the ongoing impact of his spot-fixing trial. The Brazil international could potentially be banned for life over allegations that he allegedly intentionally received four separate yellow cards to influence betting outcomes. The Hammers, as a result, are leaving it up to the playmaker to decide if he feels ready to play.
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The Mail quotes sources who claim that Paqueta has been struggling to deal with the impact of the trial. The proceedings started on March 17 and he is desperate for a resolution by the end of the week. It is unclear, however, when the club and the player will be told of the verdict, although proceedings were expected to last three weeks.
DID YOU KNOW?
Paqueta skipped international duty with Brazil as he attempted to clear his name at the trial. His former manager, David Moyes, has also provided a witness statement in support of his former player, reportedly corroborating a lot of Paqueta's defence.
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Paqueta has made 25 Premier League appearances for the Hammers this season, scoring four goals. It remains to be seen if he will be in the XI against Wolves.