Lucas Paqueta admits he feels “more adapted” at West Ham United.
The Brazilian international, whose £35.6million arrival from Olympique Lyonnais last summer has the potential to reach as high as £52.7m with potential add-ons, has picked up his form at the right stage of the season with the Hammers battling to avoid Premier League relegation and reach a European final.
Paqueta scored in three consecutive games at the end of April, contributing a goal and an assist in West Ham’s 4-1 win against KAA Gent in the Europa Conference League quarter-final second leg and their 4-0 victory at Bournemouth in the Premier League days later, before opening the scoring against Liverpool in a 2-1 defeat.
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With just two Premier League goals to his name up until March, the midfielder had come under some criticism for a lack of assists and goals since making his big money move from French club Lyon. David Moyes called for patience, citing that it can take time for players to adapt to the rigours of Premier League football.
West Ham fans have started to see more of the Brazilian’s quality recently and Paqueta admits he has a better understanding of his teammates. “I’m happy,” Paqueta told West Ham club media. “I feel more and more adapted to the team, I understand the players on the field. I think it’s important to have this rapport and understanding the other players, and your teammates.”
Although West Ham are not yet mathematically safe, sitting 15th and six points above the Premier League relegation zone with two games to go, only a dramatic set of results against them would drag them into the bottom three on goal difference, with Leeds United in 18th on a goal difference of -25 and the Hammers on -14.
Ahead of their final two league games against Leeds (home) and Leicester City (away) respectively, Moyes’ men will be looking to book their place in the Europa Conference League Final in Prague on June 7, with the Hammers currently commanding a 2-1 leading heading into second leg of their semi-final clash with AZ Alkmaar.
“We’ll do everything to win this semi-final because it’s our chance to get a trophy and make history for the club,” said Paqueta. He added: “Like the other matches, there are some things I usually do. I pray, I ask for help, and I thank God beforehand, that’s something I do a lot.
“I ask for help, but I say thanks at the same time. Because, this way, I believe God will bless me and everything will always work out. When I get to the field, I ask God to make me happy, so that I can make the most of the gift he’s given me. He’s got the rest.”
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