icLiverpool - Lucas ready to deal another blow to Inter Milan
Lucas ready to deal another blow to Inter Milan
Feb 13 2008
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Lucas Leiva
LUCAS is determined to help deal another blow to Inter Milan on the Champions League – after turning down the Serie A side to join Liverpool.
The Brazil midfielder has grown in stature since arriving at Anfield for £6million from Gremio in his homeland.
Lucas netted his first goal for Rafael Benitez’s side in the FA Cup win over Havant and Waterlooville last month and had a starting role in the goalless draw at Chelsea on Sunday.
The 21-year-old was much sought-after during the summer and rejected overtures from a number of clubs, including Inter, to sign in at Anfield.
And as Liverpool prepare to take on the Italian champions in the Champions League first knockout round first leg at Anfield next Tuesday, Lucas has no regrets over his decision – and wants the opportunity to prove he was right.
“I was in a fortunate position at Gremio because I had achieved some success and I was made a lot of very interesting offers – offers which would have made a lot of money,” he said.
“Some of them were in Spain and it's true I had an enquiry from Inter Milan too.
“I could have gone to Spain or Italy and it would have been more like I am used to. But I want to make the most of my career and I want to challenge myself.
“They were all famous clubs but the Liverpool option stood out from the first moment I heard of their interest.
“I had heard of them back in Brazil and we saw a lot of Premier League matches so I was aware of what the manager was building here at the club.
“I have friends from the international team at Inter; Cesar and Maicon are great players and I will enjoy playing against them.
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But I would much rather play for Liverpool than Inter. That was my decision then and it would be the same if I had to make it again.
“I think we have the tools to beat Inter, but it will be an exciting game and my first time – hopefully – playing at the San Siro.”
Meanwhile, Pepe Reina has praised his Liverpool team-mates after the goalkeeper broke Ray Clemence’s record by achieving 50 clean sheets in the shortest time in the club’s history.
Reina reached the landmark with his shut-out against Sunderland earlier this month, and he said: “It’s nice to reach these kind of numbers – I am very proud.
“But, as I’ve said many times, it’s not just down to me.
“The whole of the team defends and the back four have been in good form in the three years I’ve been here.
“So, I have to say thanks to them and all of my team-mates throughout the three years, because without them it wouldn’t have been possible. Now I look forward to another 50.”
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Also note "I was aware of what the manager was building". Lucas knows.