Keith Wyness responds to ‘concerning’ Lucas Paqueta news from West Ham
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has insisted West Ham star Lucas Paqueta is “well within his rights” to be concerned about leaks in his gambling rule breaches case.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – claimed his public plea will also “put pressure on the decision” with the midfielder potentially facing a long-term ban.
Brazil international Paqueta was hit with six FA charges in May over alleged spot-fixing surrounding yellow cards received in four Premier League games – but has continued to deny the allegations.
He released a statement on 17 October sharing his frustration at the “continued leaking and publication of inaccurate information in the press”.
The 27-year-old has instructed his lawyers to complain to the FA about the leaks and wants the governing body to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
West Ham star Paqueta ‘well within his rights’ to call for investigation, says Wyness
Wyness claimed there is “a lot at stake” for Paqueta, who missed out on a move to Man City last year (2023) when the allegations surfaced.
He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “This process is obviously ongoing, but the reports seem to be quite accurate.
“Or at least accurate enough to get him concerned that someone is leaking this information.
“He’s saying the reports are wrong, but for him to comment and ask for an inquiry – I think he’s well within his rights.
“He’s got every right for this process to be kept secret and handled in the proper way.
“It also helps put pressure on the decision itself, which is a big one – there’s a lot at stake.
“These leaks, although he says they are wrong, are concerning him enough with their accuracy – which is a bit of a double-edged sword.
“I think he’s right to try and understand where it is all coming from.”
In other news, West Ham backed to complete Ben Chilwell signing.
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