NewsLiverpool's Greatest - No.94: Lucas Leiva
Years: 2007-2017
Appearances: 346
Goals: 7
Trophies: League Cup (2012)
Lucas Leiva overcame criticism and doubt to become a beloved adopted Scouser in a decade-long spell at Liverpool.
Few, if any, players have enjoyed such a drastic transformation as the long-haired arrival from Gremio in 2007.
Lucas came to the club with a glowing reputation as a young, attack-minded midfielder, but would blossom at the Reds in a more defensive role.
Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, Javier Mascherano and others were the midfield competition in his first few seasons, meaning Lucas had the challenge of maintaining such standards when handed game time.
It was Alonso’s departure in 2009 that paved the way for the No.21 to stake a regular spot in the side – an opportunity he more than grasped.
Lucas racked up 50 appearances in 2009-10 – the most of his time at Anfield – and was then voted by supporters as Liverpool’s Player of the Season in the following campaign.
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Watch on YouTubeIn addition to what he produced on the pitch, he endeared himself to the fan base further by showing heart and grit to return from a pair of serious injuries.
Lucas’ importance to the club was evident regardless of who was in the dugout, with Rafael Benitez, Kenny Dalglish, Brendan Rodgers and Jürgen Klopp all counting on him during their reigns.
Having helped Klopp lay the foundations for the success that followed, Lucas was reluctantly allowed to join Lazio in the summer of 2017 when he sought a fresh challenge.
“To have the opportunity to play for Liverpool for me was a unique chance,” he said. “So I just tried every day to fight and prove to myself I was able to do it.”
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