Thursday, 3rd April, 2014
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has praised Lucas Leiva's attitude in overcoming an injury and his determination to force his way back into the Reds’ first team plans.
The Brazilian last started for the Reds in their 5-3 away win against Stoke on 12th January. In the next game against Aston Villa, Lucas took to the field as a half-time substitute but was taken off in the 66th minute with a knee injury.
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The 27-year-old was ruled out for two months, but he made a strong comeback in early March when he took the field with Liverpool’s Under-21 side and then played the dying minutes of Reds’ famous 3-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Rodgers has praised the Brazilian’s attitude and commitment as a footballer for making such a quick recovery from a serious knee injury.
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“I've got to say Lucas has been absolutely incredible in his attitude", Rodgers was quoted as saying by his club's site.
"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.”
Rodgers also lauded the incredible commitment that Lucas has shown towards the club and his team-mates even though he has lost his starting place.
“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."
Lucas will hope to feature in Liverpool’s team as they try to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League table when they take on West Ham United at Upton Park on Sunday.
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