Lopetegui and Paqueta insist their future remains together

West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui is confident that Lucas Paqueta's future lies at the London stadium.

The 27 year-old has been linked with a return to his boyhood side Flamengo and posted a cryptic message on social media before Monday evening's Premier League clash. The midfielder kissed the West Ham badge after scoring the winner against Bournemouth on Monday.

"Did you see the match he did? I think this is the answer," Lopetegui said when asked about Paqueta's future.

"The commitment and behaviour that he showed was 100 per cent with us. The only future I can think about him is he has to be ready for the next big challenge we have against Brighton.

"He showed very, very good behaviour and we are very happy with him."

Paqueta himself reassured the fans that he is happy in East London, saying after the victory: "I love to play here with West Ham. I love these fans. With the coach, we have the same way.

"For me, it's very, very important to play. I like to play every day, every week. I am happy, I try to improve and focus on the next game."