'Luis wants to fight for every ball'
Luis Suarez may be one of world football's most exquisite and lethal finishers but his persistence and passion is what puts him on a pedestal, according to teammate Lucas Leiva.
The Uruguayan showcased both elements to perfection during the Reds' thrilling 5-3 win over Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday.
The diligence Lucas refers to was in full flow as Suarez harried the Potters' defence into submission to grab the second goal of the game on 32 minutes.
In the second half, his poise and conviction shone through as the No.7 opened his body to curl beyond Jack Butland and extend the visitors' lead to 4-2.
Lucas told the Liverpool Echo: "At any time of the game he can do something special to change the game and score goals.
"He is always pressing people from the front, which helps us a lot. His work-rate is amazing for a forward.
"We are used to seeing strikers who don't like to fight too much but Luis is the kind of player who fights and wants to win every ball and make things happen.
"He's just showing his talent and getting better and better this season. We're lucky to have him."
Suarez handed Reds fans an early Christmas present on December 20 last year when he pledged his long-term future to the club and signed a new contract at Melwood.
For Lucas, his fellow South American's decision to commit to Anfield reinforced the special relationship he shares with the Kop faithful - and he expects Suarez to help push the team forward over the coming seasons.
"If you see the games every week, you can see the relationship between the fans and Luis - it's very special," said Lucas.
"There were a few difficult moments last summer which everyone knows about but everyone - the fans, the club and Luis - was happy with the new contract.
"The club supported him in every single way and now he's out there giving everything on the pitch. He knows the club and he knows all his teammates - he feels comfortable playing for the team.
"His family are very happy in Liverpool and I know he values that a lot. He worries a lot about his family and that was something he thought about when he made his decision.
"It was a happy end for both Luis and the club, and he's having a great season helping the team to move forward."
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