Rodgers optimistic on Lucas recovery

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has backed midfielder Lucas to make a speedy recovery from his latest injury setback.

The Brazilian, who missed most of last season after knee surgery, has been ruled out for two to three months with a thigh problem. New boss Rodgers is confident, after seeing the player's response to last year's troubles, that he can return to action closer to beginning than the end of that timescale. Rodgers said: "He's quick healer so I would hope we would have him back quicker than that but we won't be rushing him. "It is unfortunate he had got over his knee problems and was looking strong, getting near to full fitness and then he's had this. "We are hoping that is a maximum. He is a very courageous guy and very focused. His aim is to get back as quick as he possibly can."