Lucas: Some critics won't be silenced

Lucas Leiva today thanked midfield partner Javier Mascherano for helping him become one of Liverpool's most consistent performers - but the Brazilian accepts some critics may prove impossible to silence.

Lucas has hardly missed a game so far this term following a series of assured displays alongside Mascherano in the heart of midfield.
 
The majority of onlookers have now been convinced of the 22-year-old's undoubted pedigree which led to him being awarded the Brazilian league's best player prior to his Anfield move.
 
However, Lucas is not concerning himself with any remaining critics as he looks to help Liverpool haul themselves up the table.
 
"I'm trying to improve all the time but I'm feeling good on the pitch. I think I've improved a lot since last season and hopefully I'll keep going," he told Liverpoolfc.tv.
 
"I think things might always be more difficult for me at Liverpool, to be honest, but I'm trying to prove I can do well for myself and my teammates. The real supporters of Liverpool know this and support me a lot.
 
"When I came to Liverpool I came with a challenge of winning titles and making history for the club. Hopefully I can do that.
 
"I'm playing almost every game now. I have a good link with Javier Mascherano. I understand the way he plays and he helps me a lot. I think it's good for the team that we can keep the balance."
 
Meanwhile, Lucas insists Liverpool will take the Europa League seriously as the Brazil international looks to win his first piece of silverware in English football.
 
He said: "We have to move on. We didn't do enough to get to the next stage and so now we have to concentrate on the Europa League and getting into a better position domestically.
 
"We'll try to win the Europa League because it's still an important competition. Some good teams play in it and we'll try to get a title for ourselves."