Lucas Leiva ready to step up for Liverpool
Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva is looking to recapture what he considers his best form in two years after recovering from injury.
The Brazil international enjoyed a run of 16 starts in 19 matches from late November – which coincided with a marked improvement in the team’s results - until a groin problem in February’s Merseyside derby saw him miss 10 games.
He was an unused substitute in the defeat by Manchester United immediately before the international break, their first in the league since mid-December, but played 90 minutes in Sunday’s All-Star Charity game at Anfield.
Lucas’ return to fitness could not have come at a more opportune moment, with captain Steven Gerrard suspended for three matches for his sending off against United, and the Brazilian is hoping to slot back in seamlessly after injury halted what was turning into a good season personally.
“I was in a very good moment, probably the best moment in the last couple of years, and I had a good run of games,” he said.
“The beginning of the season wasn’t good for me because I couldn’t play much, but as soon as I got back in the team I think I helped a lot.
“I don’t know if Stevie’s suspension will change things because the team were playing well, but I need to be ready and there are a lot of games to play and the FA Cup as well, so everyone will be needed.
“I need to be ready and if I get a chance again I need to be at the same level I was before I was injured.”
