Lucas Paqueta has been linked with a West Ham exit but the playmaker pulled out a defiant celebration as he kissed the badge following links of a move to Aston Villa.
Lucas Paqueta kissed the West Ham badge after scoring in their win at Nottingham Forest – with his celebration making his loyalty to the Hammers clear despite talk of a move away.
The Brazilian has just been cleared of gambling accusations and scored for the second time this season as the London outfit secured a morale-boosting win at the City Ground. It came as the playmaker is heavily linked with a deadline day move to Aston Villa.
Unai Emery has done minimal business thus far, but Paqueta looks to have little interest in leaving West Ham, and backed that up with his celebration as he scored from the spot in Nottingham.
The 28-year-old reeled away and lapped up the love in front of the travelling fans as he made a phone sign with his hand, throwing it over his shoulder before kissing the badge in what is the most telling sign that he’ll be staying put.
Paqueta at his best has been one of West Ham’s best performers and, despite their slow start to the season, has no interest in pursuing a move away and boss Graham Potter expects him to remain.
The Hammers boss told the BBC: “The noise has been around Lucas for a long time and the way he conducts himself is incredible. He gave everything for the team again today and contributed with a goal and the win.”
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