West Ham playmaker Lucas Paqueta has made a big statement on his long awaited return from injury.

The Brazilian international has been absent in recent weeks following a thigh injury sustained in the FA Cup clash with Bristol City at the London Stadium last month.

The injury has seen the former Lyon star travel to Spain for his recovery, however as has been reported previously, Paqueta has since returned to Rush Green to step up his recovery with hope now that it is now edging closer.

As was reported by ExWHUEmployee, there is an outside chance he could make the Arsenal game this Sunday, although it’s understood it’s unlikely at this stage.

However Paqueta himself has now taken to social media to provide an encouraging message for our Hammers fans, with the Brazil maverick hinting that his return is close.

“Looking forward to getting back to doing what I love,” said Paqueta. “Not long.”

It will undoubtedly be a huge boost for all connected with the club should Paqueta return, with his absence in recent weeks evident with West Ham’s results and in game creativity clearly lacking.

Our Hammers host the Gunners this Sunday looking to make it a hattrick of victories over the north London side.

Paqueta, although unlikely to feature at this stage, has certainly raised hopes he is ahead of schedule for the London derby this weekend.