Lucas Paqueta’s ‘career could be over’ in new West Ham verdict – Stefan Borson
West Ham star Lucas Paqueta could be about to “lose his career” and that is why his betting case is taking such a long time to reach a conclusion.
That is the view of finance expert Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider the Brazil international must be given the opportunity to defend himself because it’s such a “serious issue” and he could lose his career if he’s found guilty.
Paqueta was hit with six FA charges in May over alleged spot-fixing surrounding yellow cards received in four Premier League games.
The 26-year-old denied the allegations in a statement and said he was “extremely surprised and upset” by the charges.
An FA investigation was launched after betting activity emerged in Brazil on Paqueta receiving a yellow card in West Ham’s home game against Aston Villa last year, where he was handed a caution for a late challenge.
The Times reported on 17 July the midfielder’s case is expected to stretch well into 2025, meaning he will be able to play for the east Londoners throughout most of next season.
West Ham star Lucas Paqueta could lose his career
But Borson isn’t surprised by the time it could take before an outcome is reached due to the complexity of the case.
“Complicated and important cases take a long time,” Borson told Football Insider.
“It’s a matter of fairness that he’s given the opportunity to defend himself with the benefit of whoever hears the case being able to hear from witnesses and being given the relevant evidence.
“If this case goes against Paqueta, he’s likely to effectively lose his career. It doesn’t surprise me that people are taking their time with due process.
“The lawyers on both sides will be making sure that all of the relevant evidence compiled is heard by the relevant panel.
“Given that this is a multi-jurisdictional issue and clearly will therefore have language issues involved in it, which will probably require translations of witness statements and that sort of thing, I don’t think it’s a big shock that it’s going to take a long time.
“It’s just such a serious issue for the player that people should be prepared to allow that process to run its course.
“Unfortunately, it doesn’t fit with a media or a football timescale, but some things are more important than that.
“This is his career that is in jeopardy here, so it’s just very important that he’s given the opportunity to defend himself.”
In other news, West Ham expect defender bids after £35million reveal.
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