Tuesday 25 August 2015 12:59, UK
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers insists Lucas remains firmly part of his plans - but he admits he cannot guarantee the midfielder a starting place.
The Brazil international has been linked with a move away from Anfield before the close of the summer transfer window, with Turkish side Besiktas interested in a loan deal, according to Sky sources.
Lucas played 76 minutes of Liverpool's goalless draw with Arsenal on Monday night and appeared to wave goodbye to the travelling support at the Emirates Stadium when replaced by youngster Jordan Rossiter.
Rodgers, however, has cooled talk of an exit for Lucas and was full of praise for the performance of the 28-year-old.
"Lucas is our best defensive midfield player," Rodgers said.
"There are games where I play three midfield players but not always with a defensive specific one, but when we do need that, he is the best one we have.
"He came in tonight and did a great job and is very much part of what we want to do.
"But of course every player wants to play every game and every minute of every game but you can never guarantee that as a manager. He's certainly very important to what we want to do.
"He is highly respected by me, the coaching staff and the players."
