Another transfer window has passed and Lucas Leiva is still at Liverpool! Only Sadio Berahino flirts with exits as much as our longest serving player, and in truth – we’re delighted the Brazilian is sticking around. Lucas has the attitude, desire and loyalty that should be held up as an example to the rest of the squad…
The 29-year-old is expected to be used as both a centre-back and a holding midfielder this term. With Mamadou Sakho frozen out by Jurgen Klopp, Lucas is the fourth choice central defender behind Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Ragnar Klavan – and with our injury record at the back – don’t be surprised if he’s needed at some point this season.
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Last term Lucas stepped in at defence against the likes of Stoke, Manchester City and Bournemouth and did well enough to suggest it might be his position long-term as he enters his thirties.
Liverpool fans haven’t seen the South American yet this term due to a hamstring injury, but Lucas has assured us he’s fully fit and looking forward to getting back on the field.
“I’m 100 per cent I would say,” the 29-year-old told Liverpoolfc.com when asked about his level of fitness.
“I didn’t miss much, to be honest – I was only out for three-and-a-half weeks. I did a lot of training after that, played 45 minutes for the U23s and was on the bench the last game [at Tottenham]. I’m ready to go.
“I think I had a very good pre-season. I missed part of it but I think I’ve recovered. Now with the international break I have another two weeks to train hard and I feel very fit.
“If I had had to start the game, Spurs would probably be too early because I played 45 minutes for the U23s the day before, but if I’d have had to come on I would have been fine.
“As I said, I have two weeks to work more and be ready. I would say I’m now ready to play 90 minutes.”