Revealed: When Lucas Paqueta will learn his fate over alleged spot-fixing as West Ham star's hearing over betting charges looms amid threat of lifetime ban

Paqueta has been charged by the Football Association over allegedly breaching betting rules and is due to learn his fate in the coming weeks. According to Sky Sports, a hearing is set to take place this month and will last approximately three weeks. The FA is said to be "pressing" for a lifetime ban for Paqueta if he is found guilty.

The Brazilian reacted angrily to the initial charge and revealed he was "extremely surprised and upset" at the news. Paqueta has made it clear he denies the charges against him and has since hit out at "misleading" articles being published in the press. The West Ham star stands accused of intentionally receiving yellow cards in games against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth for the "improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting".

Sky Sports News' chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol said: "My understanding of Paqueta's situation is, his feeling is, whatever happens, he will clear his name. He insists he has done nothing wrong and will not rest until his name is cleared. There is talk of a lifetime ban but that does not enter his thinking. He believes he has not put a bet on any football game."

Paqueta's future is very much in doubt as he awaits a verdict into the spot-fixing allegations. The Brazilian hasn't played for West Ham since the defeat to Brentford, due to an ankle injury, and it's not known yet if he will be available for selection when West Ham return to action on Monday against Newcastle in the Premier League.