West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta criticized the Football Association after he was sent off in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, accusing English football’s governing body of failing to provide psychological support during its match-fixing investigation.
Paqueta was sent off late in the match at the London Stadium after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession for complaining.
The Brazilian player was acquitted of four charges of match-fixing by the FA this year after a lengthy investigation.
“It is ridiculous that your life and career have been affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation,” Paqueta posted on the X website.
“Maybe this ridiculous behavior is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure, and looks like I’ll have to continue to endure! I’m sorry if I’m not perfect.”
Paqueta’s post was in response to a Sky Sports post which included footage of the incident with the caption “It’s ridiculous behaviour”.
The 28-year-old also apologized to his teammates and fans, but said his actions did not warrant a sending off.