Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva has put an end to any doubts over his Liverpool future by signing a new, long-term contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2015.
The 24 year-old has emerged over the last two years as one of the club’s most improved players and the club’s newly-appointed director of football, Damien Comolli, revealed that tying him to a long-term deal was a priority after his arrival on Merseyside last year.
The former Gremio player had made no secret of his desire to extend his stay at the club, despite facing fierce criticism for his early displays, and manager Kenny Dalglish admitted on Wednesday that the affection was mutual.
“He is happy to be here and to be playing for the club,” said the Scot.
“He is getting everything he deserves at the moment, including being a fixture in the Brazilian team, because of how he has performed on the pitch.
''Certainly since I came in he has been a great asset to the team and has done tremendously well.
''We're delighted for him because he's a really honest, genuine fella and that's reflected in the way he plays.
Lucas, after struggling more than most during Liverpool's slump in form last season believes the club can now start to look forward to regaining their place among Europe's elite.
''Everyone wants to be in the Champions League again and to win titles,'' he said.
''That is what Liverpool is about. The way everything is going I think it will be a very good next few seasons.
''We have some new players who have come here and that shows we are moving in the right direction.
''I am pleased with the way Liverpool tried to keep me and now I want to keep doing my best for them.
''For me it was an easy decision because I know how big Liverpool are and I can see Liverpool are committed to me and are planning for a future with me.
''I don't think people thought I could stay here for so long, but now I want to just keep on improving.''
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