Benitez always supported Lucas last season when he was suffering at the hands of frustrated fans, who showed their displeasure as Liverpool threw away plenty of home points.

Lucas took the brunt of that criticism, but despite suggestions he is interested in returning home to play for Corinthians, his performances have improved and he could become a key component in Benitez’s midfield.

Lucas added: “I want to play every week but I know Liverpool have a strong squad. I just have to wait and respect whatever decisions Rafa makes.”

He added: “Everyone was really sad to see Xabi go because he had been here a long time.

“Last season he was one of the club’s best players but he has a plan for himself and his career. We have to respect that.

“We will continue to support him because he is a friend of ours. I hope he does well at Real and I am sure he hopes we continue to do well here.

“We will miss him of course but I think we can cope without him. We did not play all the games last season with Xabi, and still finished runners-up.

“He is a really good player but we also have a lot of other quality players here.”