How wonderful it was to see both Tim Steidten and Julen Lopetegui throw the proverbial West Ham arm around Lucas Paqueta yesterday.
In case you hadn’t noticed, the Irons director of football and head coach held an impressive first press conference at the club on Monday afternoon. And in the midst of talk about transfers and style of play, there was a very personal message for a Hammer who is not having the best of times recently.
However our Brazilian maestro has managed to find some escape away from mounting club pressure on international duty and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Paqueta delivered a stellar performance in Brazil’s 4-1 triumph over Paraguay in Las Vegas on Friday, scoring a goal, assisting another, and missing a penalty.
During their presser technical director, Tim Steidten revealed that he visited Paqueta during a trip to Brazil before the Copa America began last month. It was the revelation of a classy and personal touch which will surely go along way in the eyes of the player.
Despite the personal challenges Paqueta faces, Lopetegui expressed relief at seeing him happy on the pitch at Allegiant Stadium.
“We know he and his family are going through a tough time,” Lopetegui remarked. “We are eagerly awaiting his return. Here in England, we are his family and will take care of him. It was heartening to see him smile during the last match, enjoying the game.”
Steidten mentioned that the FA has informed West Ham that Paqueta is permitted to play until his case is resolved. If the Hammers new management team can keep the Brazilian feeling loved and motivated, Paq-Man could be like a new signing.
Paqueta is out star, I think he is innocent but you obviously have that seed of doubt. I generally believe when it comes to things like infaltion etc people have to come up with creative ways in order to make money. I would like to see that if all these bets are new! or if some have been betting on Paqueta for a little while and word has got around. It will look dodgy if they was all new but if 3 or 4 people have already made money surely it’s a case of tell a friend tell a friend etc. None of he’s family is involved within this which is a good sign. Plus Paqueta is a hot head and can lose control when he is angry. If they have watched he’s whole career then surely they understand that the players chance of being yellowed card is higher once he is frustrated. Either way it is interesting to see the whole situation.
I’m not advocating this, but out of interest what do we think another club would pay for him right now with a potential big ban hanging over him and making him almost worthless? 10m? Just a “fun” question.
Hi Peter, bit of a risk/reward thing I guess. West Ham could loose it all if he’s found guilty.
I wonder if West Ham would accept £20m?