Rafael Benitez has hit out at Lucas Leiva’s critics following the young Liverpool midfielder’s call-up for Brazil’s forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The Reds chief has become increasingly annoyed at media pundits’ criticism of the 22-year-old, and has suggested he is an easy target compared to senior stars.

Lucas was again singled out after the opening Barclays Premier League defeat at Tottenham last weekend, but responded with a fine display in the midweek victory over Stoke.

Benitez said: "Lucas has a very good mentality. But for someone of his age to suffer such criticism from the experts on TV is wrong.

"He is so good but still he was criticised. I do not understand why they do not criticise other players, more senior players, when they do not play well.

"He is an easy target and maybe they are not brave enough to criticise the bigger players here."

He added: "But he will have a big season. He was the best player in pre-season and at Spurs, when we did not play well, he was still one of the best alongside Glen Johnson and Pepe Reina.

"Against Stoke he again showed his quality. He has a very good mentality. He can tackle, win headers and pass the ball. He will make mistakes like anyone, but he is and will be a very good player.

"I was really pleased for Lucas, in particular, after the win against Stoke and his performance.

"I have been really surprised at the amount of criticism he has had to cope with from the pundits, the so-called experts.