Lucas Paqueta Set to Return for West Ham Against Brighton
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Lucas Paqueta will start in Sunday's Premier League match against Brighton after serving a one-match suspension.
Paqueta was sidelined during the 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford due to a suspension stemming from his outburst at referee Darren England during the home defeat to Liverpool. This incident resulted in Paqueta receiving two yellow cards for his actions.
Following the match, the 28-year-old sarcastically applauded England as he exited the field. He later addressed the situation on social media, explaining that his behavior was influenced by the lengthy spot-fixing investigation initiated by the FA in 2024, which concluded this summer with Paqueta being cleared of all allegations.
Nuno noted earlier this week that the midfielder was still feeling the effects of the investigation, expressing that Paqueta was "suffering, disappointed, and upset" after receiving the red card.
The FA has opted not to impose any further sanctions on Paqueta regarding the Liverpool incident, allowing him to return to action against Brighton. Nuno confirmed that the Brazilian will be reinstated to the starting lineup.
"He is going to play," Nuno stated. When asked if Paqueta would start, he replied, "Yes," expressing confidence that the previous situation would not recur. "It is in the past. I am positive it will not happen again because he personally admitted his mistake. We discussed it in the dressing room. I am optimistic that it is over and will not be repeated."
West Ham's draw at Old Trafford means they have experienced only one defeat in their last five matches, a notable improvement compared to their opening nine games where they secured just four points.
However, Leeds' unexpected victory over Chelsea at Elland Road on Wednesday has resulted in West Ham falling back into the relegation zone. Nuno acknowledged the club's struggle to maintain their top-flight status, which they have held since 2012. "We cannot avoid it; it is a reality," he said. "We have to face it. We are fighting for survival. We cannot hide from it. We cannot control the results of other teams. It is up to us."
Nuno also revealed that winger Crysencio Summerville might be available for the trip to Brighton after recovering from an injury that has kept him out of West Ham's last three matches. Additionally, teenage defender Ollie Scarles is set to see a specialist on December 8, hoping to be cleared for a return to contact training after suffering a broken collarbone in October.