Lucas interview: Liverpool midfielder discusses desire to give back to community

Ahead of Liverpool's clash with rivals Manchester United, Lucas talks to Sky Sports about giving back to the community, staying at Anfield and this weekend's trip to Old Trafford.

Having arrived on Merseyside back in 2007, Liverpool is very much home to Lucas. And giving something back to the people of the city he cares for is seen as a vitally important and enjoyable part of his job.

The Brazil midfielder knows exactly how tough life can be as a youngster, more so when the opportunities are limited through disability. 

However, the club's Respect 4 All Disability Centre, which opened in 2008, now has coaching sessions running four nights a week and Lucas is again giving his all, helping out those who are either visually impaired, physically disabled, have learning difficulties or who are wheelchair users. 

"I really enjoy it here," Lucas said. "I've been here a couple of times now and you can see how hard they work to have a chance to play some football and have some fun. The LFC foundation does a fantastic job of supporting these people."

The coaching sessions run throughout school term time on a multi sports basis but with a focus on football for young people or adults who have not previously had the opportunity to get involved in sports.  

"Sport is always good," he added. "It gives you confidence and belief and that's what we do here. When you have a chance to support someone who has needs more than you, I think you should do it. Liverpool is my home and a big part of my life, so I try to help."

Lucas came close to leaving Liverpool in the summer transfer window, with Turkish side Besiktas interested in acquiring his services. 

But the 28-year-old is delighted to still be at Anfield and demonstrated not just his commitment to the city but the club itself. 

"It was a very intense window and I'm happy to be here and I'll always fight for this club," he said. 

Lucas is now looking forward to being a real part of Brendan Rodgers' plans for the season and ahead of the clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford, live on Ford Saturday Night Football, he is expecting another fiercely contested affair.

"It's a big game. We know how excited the fans are for this and both teams are at the same situation - same points, a lot of new signings and a new team. Hopefully we can keep improving," he said. 

Lucas still has two years to run on his contract and was quoted by Rodgers as "being our best defensive midfielder" after their recent goalless draw at Arsenal, so it certainly looks as though he will be putting more smiles on the faces of local Liverpool youngsters, both on and off the pitch, for a little while longer in the city he now calls home.

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