NEVER mind Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, there is another Liverpool player who has become the centre of attention for the chattering classes during recent weeks.

Seemingly barely a day goes by without an internet forum, a letters page, a radio phone-in or one of the raft of pundits debating the virtues of Lucas Leiva.

Few Anfield players have polarised opinion quite as much as the Brazilian, with observers just as likely to be vehemently for the midfielder as against him.

Such focus has only intensified since Xabi Alonso’s departure shifted Lucas further up Rafael Benitez’s midfield pecking order, particularly with newcomer Alberto Aquilani still weeks away from a debut.

And the 22-year-old intimates he is becoming a little weary at the constant critical analysis given to his every appearance.

“Every time I speak to anyone they always ask me to try to find out how I am playing, but when the team play well it helps everyone,” says Lucas. “I’m just trying to do my best for the team. I want to do well for myself, but the first thing is to help the team win.

“I’m playing well and training well, doing things in the right way, so now I just have to keep going.

“Some people have said ‘Lucas might fill Xabi’s boots’. But his departure doesn’t mean that. It is an opportunity for a few players.

“The boss has options. He can use Stevie in midfield or Aquilani when he’s fit, or maybe me or Jay Spearing. Nothing is guaranteed.”

Lucas admits he has endured some struggles since his £6m arrival from Gremio in July 2007.