Reds ace reveals Rodgers help

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva says the support offered by new boss Brendan Rodgers has helped him fight back from injury.

The 25-year-old Brazil international damaged his cruciate ligament in November, leading to seven months on the sidelines, but he is back with the first team now and looking ahead to the season. Rodgers told the midfielder would have a part to play when he got back to full fitness and he has explained how that has helped him in his rehabilitation. Lucas told the club's official website: "On my first day back in Liverpool, he spoke with me and said I was in his plans. "Those words helped me to relax a little bit more because he was a new manager coming in and everyone wants to impress. I was coming back from an injury and knew I wouldn't be at the same level as the other players." The Brazilian added: "It gave me the confidence to progress slowly and I am really happy to have his support from the beginning. When a manager says great things about you, it always gives you extra confidence and motivation - but I was already motivated enough. I am at a big club and very happy to play for this club."