Nuno Espirito Santo was asked a direct question about Lucas Paqueta’s future at West Ham United after their win over Sunderland.
Paqueta sat out as West Ham United claimed another hugely important victory in the Premier League’s relegation battle.
Indeed, Nuno’s side were brilliant as West Ham beat Sunderland 3-1 at the London Stadium to move within two points of 17th-placed Nottingham Forest.
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It is clear that Paqueta wants to leave West Ham amid interest from former club Flamengo, who reportedly saw a second offer rejected earlier this week.
Clearly, the club need to resolve the situation, but reports suggest that West Ham want to keep Paqueta on loan for the rest of the season if they are to sell.
Nuno confirms Lucas Paqueta transfer latest at West Ham United
The Hammers boss was always likely to be asked about the Brazilian during his post-match press conference.
It’s a shame that the subject of a want-away star’s future would come up following West Ham’s best performance in what feels like an age, but that is par for the course during a transfer window.
Asked directly whether or not Paqueta had already played his last game for the club, Nuno proved rather evasive.
How many points would West Ham have taken from their last two games if Lucas Paqueta had been playing? 🤔
Maybe I’m harsh, but I just don’t think he suits this team anymore…
He again stressed he simply hoped that the club would find a solution regarding his future.
“What I hope is the situation to be solved as soon as possible,” he said (via The Independent).
“Every part involved has to be solved and to be clear, so we have a direction to move forward.”
Forget Lucas Paqueta, West Ham have their new match winners
There’s little doubt that the former Lyon star is a brilliant player on his day, capable of things not many others in the West Ham squad can do.
However, fans have just not seen that often enough this season.
At his best, Paqueta can help Jarrod Bowen change games for West Ham.
Without him, however, Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes have stood up.
Summerville scored a fantastic header against Sunderland, while Fernandes scored an even better strike from range.
Frankly, there’s little need for Paqueta any more.
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