KENNY DALGLISH paid tribute to Liverpool FC striker Craig Bellamy after he marked an emotional few days by firing Liverpool into the Carling Cup semi-finals.

But the Anfield manager is sweating on the fitness of Lucas after the Brazilian left on crutches following his Liverpool FC team’s second win at Stamford Bridge inside nine days last night.

Man of the match Bellamy created two goals in five second half minutes for Maxi Rodriguez and Martin Kelly as Liverpool cruised to an emphatic 2-0 win over Chelsea in their quarter-final tie.

The Wales international returned to the starting line-up having been withdrawn from the squad to face Manchester City on Sunday following the tragic death of close friend Gary Speed earlier in the day.

And Dalglish, who embraced Bellamy on the touchline following the forward’s late substitution, said: “We know he’s a fantastic footballer and he had a hugely disappointing day on Sunday, when Speedy, who he regarded as a mentor, passed away.

“For someone to come back and play like that... for any of the players who played at the weekend... it speaks volumes for him.

“Speedy was well liked and respected. It also speaks volumes for the wee man, as well.”

The one negative for Liverpool was the sight of Lucas leaving the field on a stretcher midway through the second half.

The midfielder suffered a suspected twisted knee and will undergo scans today to ascertain the extent of the damage.

“He’s damaged his knee,” said Dalglish. “We’re not sure how it is.

“Rather than speculate, we’ll best get a proper synopsis. We’ll need to get it scanned.”