Paqueta criticises FA after red card against Liverpool

West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta says his "ridiculous behaviour" that resulted in a red card in the 2-0 defeat by Liverpool was a "reflection of everything I've had to endure."

A near-two-year Football Association investigation into the Brazil midfielder ended in July when he was cleared of spot-fixing charges by an independent regulatory commission.

On Sunday, Paqueta was shown two yellow cards in quick succession for dissent by referee Darren England for arguing over a decision to award a foul against his team with six minutes left to play.

"It's ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation," Paqueta posted on X after the game.

"Perhaps this ridiculous behavior is just a reflection of everything I've had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring!

"I'm sorry if I'm not perfect."

The FA had started its investigation in August 2023 and the 27-year-old was charged in May last year for allegedly getting booked deliberately "for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market".

Paqueta had faced the prospect of a lifetime ban if found guilty.

More to follow.