West Ham coach Nuno Espírito Santo linked midfielder Lucas Paquetá’s recent on-field expulsion to the lingering psychological impact of a past sports betting investigation.
Espírito Santo confirmed Paquetá apologized to the team following his dismissal for dissent.
“He is not well. He is suffering. He is disappointed and shaken,” Espírito Santo told reporters. He explained that the investigation continues to affect Paquetá, despite the player’s exoneration.
Paquetá was sent off during West Ham’s 0-2 loss to Liverpool.
He received two yellow cards in quick succession for protesting a referee’s decision in the 83rd minute.
The midfielder had been investigated over suspicions of intentionally receiving yellow cards to manipulate sports betting markets.
Paquetá was ultimately cleared of any wrongdoing in the probe.
Espírito Santo emphasized the club’s policy of protecting its players and resolving internal matters.
“Often people are unaware of the problems footballers face,” he added. The coach reiterated the club’s full support for Paquetá to move past the situation.