LUCAS LEIVA believes Liverpool FC must “protect” their young talents as they look to establish themselves at the club, but believes the new crop can enjoy great success at Anfield in the coming years.
The Brazilian, speaking to a select group of supporters’ fanzines and websites on Friday, also called for fans to show patience, using his own experiences at the club as an example of how players can develop with age.
Lucas initially struggled to make his mark following his arrival on Merseyside in 2007, and was criticised by plenty.
The 25-year-old is now an integral part of the Reds’ setup, and his current absence with a thigh injury is being keenly felt by manager Brendan Rodgers.
The midfielder, though, says he is heartened by the emergence of a crop of talented Academy products, led by Raheem Sterling, Suso and Andre Wisdom.
Lucas said: “We know the transfer window was difficult for us because we didn’t sign too many big players, but that is an opportunity for the young players.
“I was speaking with Suso and (Daniel) Pacheco a few weeks ago, and I said to them that I never felt the club had been so open for young players (as it is now).
