Adam pines for partner-in-crime

Liverpool’s Charlie Adam has lamented the loss of midfield partner Lucas Leiva to a serious knee injury.

Lucas was stretchered from the field during Liverpool’s 2-0 Carling Cup win over Chelsea on Tuesday after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament, and is now expected to miss the rest of the season.

The Brazil international has partnered Adam in all but one of the Reds’ 13 Premier League matches this season, but now the former Blackpool man must adjust to life without Lucas, starting in Monday’s match away at Fulham.

“We have been playing well together but he is a top Brazil international and has been fantastic for us,” Adam told liverpoolfc.tv.

“He’s gutted but we are all behind him and giving him support. I texted him the other day and told him he will come back stronger mentally and physically a better player.”

“He has had a lot plaudits for the whole season. We are all really sad for him because he’s been one of the best players for us again this season.”

“He’s a terrific player and it’s a big blow for us. He is going to be a loss.”

Liverpool have not been beaten in a competitive match since losing 4-0 to Tottenham on September 18, and were 5-2 winners last time they travelled to Craven Cottage.