Lucas Paqueta Faces Spot-Fixing Charges Amidst Brazil Call-Up

Lucas Paqueta, playing for West Ham, is facing spot-fixing charges by the English FA for allegedly receiving yellow cards deliberately. Despite these allegations, the Brazilian Football Confederation has allowed Paqueta to continue playing for the national team. Paqueta has denied the charges and plans to fight them vigorously.

Lucas Paqueta can continue to play for Brazil while he fights spot-fixing charges by the English Football Association, his national team said Thursday.

Paqueta, who plays his club soccer for West Ham, is alleged to have deliberately received yellow cards during Premier League matches to influence betting markets.

He was charged with misconduct on May 23 and faces a long ban if found guilty by English soccer authorities.

Paqueta immediately took to social media to deny the charges, vowing to "fight with every breath to clear my name," but has until Monday to formally respond to the allegations. The English FA has acknowledged that Paqueta may request for an extension before issuing his official response.

In a long statement on Thursday, the Brazilian Football Confederation said it was aware of the allegations and contacted the English FA for information.

Based on the English FA's responses, confederation president Ednaldo Rodrigues Gomes said Paqueta will stay in Brazil's squad ahead of the Copa America starting June 20 and remains free to play in upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the United States.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)