Lucas keeps working

Last updated : 23 February 2008 By Al Campbell
The Brazilian international was signed with an eye on the future but his performances this season have seen him break into the first team earlier than expected. However, Lucas says he can't afford to rest on his laurels as competition for places at Liverpool is incredibly tough.

"I have to keep working hard if I want to stay in the team. There are so many good players at Liverpool, particularly in the position that I play, that if I was to stop working and doing the right things to improve, I'm sure I would lose my place," said the midfielder.

"I think the manager trusts me and has confidence in me though and I am just trying to keep on working hard and learning.

"We have a lot of good midfielders at Liverpool and I am learning a lot from them.

"I think Steven is one of the best players in the world, so I watch him a lot to see the way he plays and the movements he makes.

"Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso are different kinds of players to Steven but they are also very, very good players and it is good to be able to work alongside them."