'Your support kept me strong'
Lucas Leiva has explained how messages of support from Liverpool fans helped keep him strong during one of the most difficult periods in his career.
The midfielder returned to Melwood last week after spending a month and a half in Brazil, where he underwent surgery on an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his left knee which will keep him out of action for the rest of 2011-12.
But Lucas admits the support of Reds fans helped keep his spirits up - and he's keen to thank them.
"As I said when I got injured, I want to say thanks to the fans for all the positive messages they have been sending to me," he told Liverpoolfc.tv
"They are definitely helping me a lot to keep strong and do well. Hopefully I will be back soon and wearing the red shirt again will be a good thing to achieve."
He added: "I was really frustrated because it was my first injury since I arrived at Liverpool and a serious one, so I was really down, especially after the operation. But you can't complain about it, you just have to deal with it, try to do the right rehab and come back stronger than before."
Despite spending six weeks in his native Brazil following his operation, Lucas had little time to spend with family and friends.
The 25-year-old embarked on a rehabilitation programme which was overseen by the Reds' medical team.
Lucas added: "I did my rehab after my operation in Brazil. The doctor wanted me there for at least six weeks and not to get a flight back straight away after the operation.
"I did simple things, tried to take the swelling of the knee down and start to move it a little bit.
"I was not in my city, I was in Sao Paulo but my family could go there and we spent some time together - but I was in the clinic doing physio almost all day, every day. Now I have to work really hard to come back as soon as possible."
Upon returning to the club's training complex, Lucas was given a warm welcome from his teammates, who were keen to know how his rehabilitation was progressing.
Indeed, the Liverpool players remained in constant contact with the Brazilian - and now he's hoping to repay their encouragement.
"They were asking how I am and how long it will take (to recover)," said Lucas. "It's a long way and very slow rehab, but they are happy to see me back and that I am doing well. Hopefully next season will be a good one for everyone.
"I kept in touch with a lot of players, especially the South American guys. We were in touch almost every week. Now I am here to help off the pitch and give a good, positive message to them."
While Lucas was in Sao Paulo, back on Merseyside Liverpool fans were busy creating a new terrace ditty in tribute to the No.21.
And if the intention of those singing it was to show support for the injured midfielder, it certainly had the desired impact.
"I have heard it and I am really happy to have it," smiled Lucas. "I am looking forward to listening to it when I make my comeback."