Liverpool Boss Brendan Rodgers has praised Brazilian Lucas Leiva’s attitude in overcoming an injury which was initially thought to be a longterm one fearing the 27 year old would not be ready for the world cup .However Rodgers applauded his mentality and determination to force his way back into the Reds’ first team plans. The Brazilian last appearance was against Aston Villa at Anfield, and was taken off in the 66th minute with a knee injury. With Steven Gerrard playing the deep lying playmaker role the Brazil international has found himself out-of-favour over the past month, with Rodgers preferring to partner Henderson along with Steven Gerrard in the heart of the Reds midfield. Rodgers also revealed Liverpool are playing with more attacking intent since Steven Gerrard took over as the sole deep-lying midfielder role, freeing up Coutinho and Jordan Henderson. “I’ve got to say Lucas has been absolutely incredible in his attitude,” Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo. “It’s 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. Steven [Gerrard] 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 he’s been first class with his attitude and his work. He has made it known to me that he just wants to help whenever he’s called upon – whether it’s for one minute or 90 minutes he will be ready.
Posted on: Fri, 04 Apr 2014 08:31:33 +0000
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