Getting called up by a national team is surely a source of pride for all players, and being on international duty now has a special taste for West Ham United star Lucas Paquetá.
The midfielder had been left aside by Brazil since the betting investigation against him started, and it was now decided to bring him back to the squad for the upcoming friendlies.
Paquetá today gave a press conference at the national team camp, and showed how happy he is to be back in the squad. The quotes come from Globo Esporte.
“In fact, I was instructed not to comment on this matter, but it has been seven months since this happened and I am cooperating to the fullest,” said Paquetá.
“I am really happy. I worked with Professor Dorival when I finished at Flamengo, it was an incredible experience. I’m happy for the call, the recognition of my work. Being in the national team has always been my dream, every child’s dream. For returning, I feel even more privileged.
“These are moments that happen, I’ve been doing my job well at my club, I’ve been having fun. I try not to let anything get in the way of me on the field. I’m still happy, doing my job. I hope to continue like this.”
Paquetá also talked about the support that West Ham have been giving him recently, and he’s happy that the Hammers let him play during the investigations.
“I think having fun means living your dream of playing in the Premier League, being a football player. Sometimes we let it slip that this is our dream, it’s been a dream of mine since I was a child. Entering the field and being able to enjoy it is pleasurable, it is a privilege.
“About being at West Ham, last season was good, this one is better. I’m happy to evolve within the team and in this difficult competition. West Ham always supported me, there was no reason why they couldn’t do what they did, which was nothing more than getting their player to play football. I’m happy to be helping, I hope to help at the end of the season.”
The midfielder already has 42 appearances for the national team, and now needs to work to guarantee a place for the Copa America squad. The Brazilian media has been saying that new manager Dorival Junior wants to emulate a Premier League team there, so it would be no shock if Paquetá ends up making it to a starting midfield along with Douglas Luiz and Bruno Guimarães.
