West Ham: Nuno Espirito Santo sets Lucas Paqueta goal as spot-fixing investigation closed | OneFootball

The Brazilian was hit with a new sanction today

Nuno Espirito Santo hopes West Ham star Lucas Paqueta can rediscover his best form after the FA closed a spot-fixing investigation into him.

With the investigation now closed and the “noise” that came with it quieted, Nuno hopes he can get back to his best.

"The noise doesn't help,” he told the press ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Newcastle. “Finally, it ends, but at the same time, there are rumours around. We have to protect ourselves and work in the best way. He's going to play on Sunday and help his team-mates.

"I've spoken to him about many things. We need Lucas. I told him personally and the squad that being a No 10 is more than a number. It's a symbol.

"That's what we need from Lucas. We need him to help his team-mates, because they trust him. We know there is more to come from him, and we need him as a No 10."

He continued, saying Paqueta would be key to winning the midfield battle on Sunday as he lines up opposite his countrymen, Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.

He acknowledged, though, that West Ham would face tough battles across the pitch as the Irons look to lift themselves out of the relegation zone: "It's not only going to be in midfield, there are going to be battles everywhere.

"But we're going to face one of the best midfields in the Premier League. I think during the game they won't be friends! After the game, they (Bruno and Lucas) can be friends again!

"I've known Eddie Howe for a while now, and we're going to face a very strong team in a good moment. Eddie has a fantastic squad, and he's doing a great job getting the best out of them."