Boss rates Lucas

Last updated : 29 February 2008 By Adam Bryant

"We've had offers for Lucas but we said 'no' because we want to keep him," he said.

"Clubs have asked about him - clubs in Italy and Spain - maybe 10 in La Liga. Good clubs in Spain and clubs in Italy who will pay more money.

"Lucas was the captain of Gremio and Brazil's under-21 team. He has two caps with the senior national team.

"He's a player with a very good mentality and quality. He's very professional, focused, and a fantastic player.

"I don't have any problem with him. If you need to take a penalty, Gerrard will be there and Lucas can be there - he has a very good mentality."

"He likes football. His uncle was a former player at Atletico Madrid. He's very focused and is a good professional.

"When he first arrived here and needed to improve his English he was not playing.

"I talked to him and he said 'Hey I'm okay, I'm improving'. He is learning and when I bought him I thought he'd be able to play in the big games like Inter in his first season."