Lucas Leiva: I'm good enough to play for Liverpool

26 April 2011 07:26
Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva believes this season has proved he has the quality to be a long-term success at Anfield despite the threat of added competition arriving in the summer. [LNB]The Brazil international was a much-derided figure among fans during his first three years after signing from Gremio in July 2007. [LNB] In favour: Lucas has played 43 times for Liverpool this season [LNB]However, following the departure in successive summers of Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano the 24-year-old has grasped the challenge of added responsibility and is enjoying the best form of his Reds career.[LNB] In January Liverpool tried and failed to sign Blackpool's central midfielder Charlie Adam and it seems likely they will renew their efforts in the summer. [LNB]Other signings, in addition to the return of injured captain Steven Gerrard, are expected but a confident Lucas welcomes the competition it will bring.[LNB]'I think every single season is a different season,' said the Brazilian, who signed a long-term deal last month. [LNB] Eyes on the prize: The Brazilian midfielder is confident his future lies with Liverpool [LNB]'I don't think I would sign a new contract if the club did not have a plan for me in the future. [LNB]'I am happy with the way I am playing. A lot of players have come already and I am still here and playing so that means they believe in my football and my qualities. [LNB]'Next season we will see what happens. They will sign players, of course, but I think I have shown I am capable of being in the team all the time. [LNB]'I have to finish well and keep that up next season, improve and fight for my place.'[LNB] Only centre-back Martin Skrtel (with 45) has made more outfield appearances than Lucas (43) this season. [LNB]In previous campaigns he was criticised by supporters for being a favourite of former manager Rafael Benitez but this term has fully justified the belief the Spaniard had in him when others had their doubts. Being seen as a key player has also helped build the player's self-belief. [LNB]'This season I am trying to take the responsibility more than the previous season because a couple of players have left and I want to step up and show my real qualities,' he added.[LNB]'We have to make sure the youngsters are comfortable and they try everything they can.[LNB]'They will make mistakes, as everyone does, but they are doing really well and we are delighted with the way they have come in and played. [LNB]'There are some important players injured but we are on a good run and they deserve to be playing at the moment.'[LNB]  Lucas impressed by Liverpool's upsurge in form under DalglishKenny to wield axe on Kop flop Cole as Reds boss plans summer clearout Hat-trick hero Rodriguez sets sights on a European spot for LiverpoolDirk Kuyt wants Liverpool to push on and reach Europe after thrashing Birmingham Explore more:People: Rafael Benitez, Javier Mascherano, Xabi Alonso, Steven Gerrard, Martin Skrtel, Charlie Adam Places: Liverpool, Brazil

Source: Daily_Mail