Liverpool confirm Lucas out for season

Liverpool have confirmed Lucas Leiva will miss the rest of the season after injuring his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

The Brazillian will now have surgery to repair the damage sustained in an attempted challenge on Chelsea’s Juan Mata in the Reds’ 2-0 victory over the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Lucas has had an impressive campaign for Kenny Dalglish’s side and news of his lay-off will come as a big blow to the Scot as the midfielder had become an integral part of his side.

Liverpool are already without captain Steven Gerrard, but have recalled Jonjo Shelvey from Blackpool to cover for the loss of Lucas.

“Liverpool FC said today a scan had confirmed an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament in Lucas Leiva’s left knee,” a statement on the club’s website read.

“The Brazil international will undergo surgery and unfortunately be ruled out for the remainder of the current campaign.”

Liverpool begin life without Lucas when they travel to Fulham in the Premier League on Monday.