LUCAS- an introduction
I have a bunch of exams this time of year, so I decided I would translate what Tom Karlsen (former chief scout of Hammover 96 and former scout for Bayer Leverkusen) wrote about our new prospect Lucas Leiva instead of preparing for these exams. Anything is fun compared to reading to exams right...alright, this is what he wrote, in short(written 11 May)
Lucas was not only the cpt of the Brazil u-20 team who won the tournament in Paraguay in January, he was also thought to be the tournaments best player by many "experts". Last fall he also played a game for Dungas Brazil first team against the club team Al-Kuwait. It wont count as an official game though, but it shows that Dunga has him on his radar.
Offically Lucas has been sidelined this month with a muscular problem. The truth though, is that he is exhausted after playing the u-20's, copa libertadores and the league games. His performances have been under par lately and that is why they decided to give him a rest.
I have previously stated that the most "european" brazilian players - who have the greatest chance of success in Europe- come from the southern part of Brazil. Lucas has been "breeded" in Gremio in the State Mato Grosso do Sul in southern Brazil. Gremio was also Ronaldinho's first club. Lucas' uncle Levinha was a former Brazil International, played WC in 1974, and also played for juventus and atletico.
The Liverpool fans can expect an almost complete central midfielder with an arsenal of qualities. The right footed Lucas has reaped praise for his defensive qualitites in Brazil. Picks up loose balls and disturb the opposition, thanks to his tactical awareness and positioning. His passing is also impressive, even under pressure. He has a constructive mind and always searches for sensible positive solutions.
He is 179cm, in other words no giant(convert it yourself lazy cunts) He is also not very physically robust. His aerial game is thus not really a threat, and in "close combat" his intelligense rather than his physique is his strenght.
Lucas is not a hard-tackeling midfield terrier, and he plays more offensive than a normal anchor position. He is dynamic and versatile. Drives forward, creativity and a good eye for spotting opportunities to go on deep runs into the box. He is also good with combination play with team mates, which is why I think Benitez wants him for his offensive qualitites.
There are areas where he can improve but in terms of basic skills, character, football intelligence and potential I believe Lucas has what it takes to succeed in English football. Just like Leto he will need to adapt physically, gain more muscle and aslo adapt mentaly, higher intensity. But compared to South American midfielders he seems to be among the most fit and structured midfield players.
Lucas is disciplined, versatile and very much a team player.
If he developes like Benitez hopes he can be a world-class footballer in the next two-three years. As I said he will need to adapt, but I firmly believe in this kid.
....(.....)
we wont find him in the starting line-up in August, but of all the latino-related Liverpool buys of late he is the one who will need fewest cold, rainy reserve team gamenights to adapt and break the "Premiership" code.
Hope someone enjoyed that
