Paqueta 'committed' to West Ham but Antonio will not be in squad
```html Paqueta Commitment Boosts West Ham, Antonio Set for Exit
West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta is fully committed to the club after being cleared of spot-fixing allegations, manager Graham Potter has confirmed. However, the future looks bleak for veteran striker Michail Antonio, who will not be part of Potter's squad for the upcoming season.
Paqueta Cleared, Focus Returns to Football
After a lengthy investigation by the Football Association (FA), Paqueta, 27, was exonerated of deliberately seeking a booking to influence betting markets. The investigation had cast a shadow over his career, with the potential for a lifetime ban hanging over him. The news comes as a significant relief to West Ham and their fans, who feared losing their star player.
The investigation coincided with strong interest from Manchester City, and with the transfer window still open until September 1st, concerns remained that Paqueta could still be tempted away from the London Stadium. Potter, speaking at a media conference in Atlanta ahead of West Ham's Premier League Summer Series match against Bournemouth, sought to reassure fans.
"You never know for sure because anything can happen in the window with anybody," Potter acknowledged. "But the news is incredibly positive. If it had gone the other way, there would have been a whole other line of questions."
"Lucas is happy and committed. He is an important person in the dressing room and at the club and we love him. We just want to help him enjoy his football."
Potter emphasized the personal toll the allegations had taken on Paqueta. "You can imagine on a personal level for him, having to fight those allegations was an incredible challenge for him. It has been a really tough period in his life and career."
"It is a credit to him and his family and everyone who has supported him that he has come through."
While the FA's written reasons for clearing Paqueta are yet to be published, it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian international will pursue legal action against the governing body.
Expert Analysis: A Turning Point for Paqueta and West Ham
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire commented on the situation, stating: "The clearing of Paqueta is significant for West Ham. Not only does it retain a valuable asset on the pitch, but it also protects the player's market value. Had the allegations proven true, his value would have plummeted, impacting West Ham's financial position. This allows the club to plan with certainty, knowing they have a key player available."
Antonio's West Ham Career Nears End
In stark contrast to Paqueta's situation, Michail Antonio's future at West Ham appears to be over. When asked if the 35-year-old would be part of his squad following the arrival of Callum Wilson, Potter gave a blunt response: "No."
The arrival of Wilson, who previously co-hosted a podcast with Antonio, on a free transfer seemingly sealed Antonio's fate. Last month, West Ham released a statement regarding Antonio's future, stating that no formal decision had been made, emphasizing the club's support for the player following his recovery from a car accident in December.
"As a long-serving, highly-respected player, and a much-loved member of the West Ham family, the club's absolute priority at this time is to support Michail personally in his journey to resume playing at the highest level," the statement read.
Antonio, who returned to playing for Jamaica during the summer's Concacaf Gold Cup after recovering from his injuries, joined West Ham in 2015 from Nottingham Forest for a reported £7 million. He holds the record for being the club's all-time leading Premier League goalscorer, netting 68 goals in 268 top-flight appearances.
Historical Context: Antonio's Legacy at West Ham
Antonio's departure marks the end of an era at West Ham. Signed initially as a versatile player capable of filling multiple positions, he eventually found his niche as a powerful and direct striker. His goals and energetic performances endeared him to the West Ham faithful, making him a cult hero at the club. While his recent form has been inconsistent, his contribution to the club's history is undeniable. His goalscoring record and longevity with the club will ensure he's remembered fondly by West Ham supporters.
Antonio joined West Ham in 2015. He is West Ham's record Premier League goalscorer (68 goals). He made 268 top-flight appearances for the club.
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Originally sourced from: BBC Sport Football