It is now said that the English Football Association is seeking a lifetime ban against a Premier League star.
West Ham United footballer Lucas Paquetá is facing betting charges after being accused of spot-fixing offences in four Premier League matches.
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The charges were brought against the player in May 2024, with the English FA stating that Paquetá tried to "influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting."
The Brazil international is also charged with two more breaches, including the failure to comply and provide information and documents relevant to the case.
Sky Sports reports that his hearing will get underway this month and is expected to last three weeks.
"The betting charge hearing is taking place this month and we expect it to last three weeks. He was charged for breaching betting rules in May of last year," said journalist Kaveh Solhekol on Sky Sports.
"The FA is asking for a lifetime ban for the midfielder.
"My understanding of Paquetá's situation is that his feeling is, whatever happens, he will clear his name. He insists he has done nothing wrong and will not rest until his name is cleared.
"There is talk of a lifetime ban, but that does not enter his thinking. He believes he has not placed a bet on any football game."
Paquetá has denied any wrongdoing, and the charges against him are related to his conduct during games against Leicester in November 2022, Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August 2024.
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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