Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has heaped praise on Lucas Leiva stating that the midfielder has shown positive attitude despite not obtaining a starting role in recent matches. The 27-year-old had regularly featured in the Reds starting XI for most of the Premier League campaign this season making 19 appearances, which included 17 starts till January. However, a knee injury against Aston Villa had sidelined him out for eight weeks. During his absence, Rodgers changed tactics while opting to deploy Steven Gerrard in the defensive midfield role. Despite returning from injury last month, Lucas has found his first team opportunities restricted; making only two substitute appearances in the last four league matches. However, the Northern Irishman insists that the Brazilian has expressed his commitment towards the team by showing the desire to step up when called upon. Ive got to say Lucas has been absolutely incredible in his attitude, Its been hard for him because he played a high percentage of the games when he was fit and obviously then got his injury. The team has done really well in his absence, Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo. Steven in that role is a world class operator. He has taken to it really well. The difference now is that rather than playing with two defensive midfield players we are playing with one. There is more emphasis on the attacking element. But I have to pay homage to Lucas because hes been first class with his attitude and his work. He has made it known to me that he just wants to help whenever hes called upon - whether its for one minute or 90 minutes he will be ready, the Liverpool manager added.
Posted on: Thu, 03 Apr 2014 17:14:31 +0000
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