Lucas Leiva injury a big blow for Liverpool, admits Charlie Adam

Charlie Adam has admitted that losing Lucas Leiva to a season-ending knee injury is a big blow for Liverpool.

Lucas, 24, will undergo surgery after suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage following a collision with Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata during Liverpool’s Carling Cup quarter-final victory at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

And Adam conceded the Brazil international will be sorely missed as Kenny Dalglish’s side look to break back into the Premier League’s top four.

“We are all really sad for Lucas because he’s been one of the best players for us again this season,” Adam said.

“He’s gutted and he knew when he got the injury it didn’t feel right, but we are all behind him and giving him support. He’s a terrific player and it’s a big blow for us.

“We have been playing well together but he is a top Brazilian international and has been fantastic for us.

“He has had a lot plaudits for the whole season but Luis Suárez has stolen the limelight because he has been terrific, but Lucas deservedly got man of the match against Manchester City.”

Despite the setback, Adam expects his Liverpool team-mate to return next season a more rounded player.

“He is going to be a loss but I texted him the other day and told him he will come back stronger mentally, and physically a better player,” added Adam.

“It will be a hard time for him but we will all get him through it, all the players and staff. He will be back for us next season.”