Lucas

[topscorer]

I'd be playing him in pretty much all the away games. I can understand going another way with the midfield set-up for home games, but I thought he was terrific again tonight before he understandably tired. Our best performances last season came with him in the side (and the back 3) and I wouldn't be packing him off yet. Really hope he stays.

I'd agree with that. I don't think he will be replaced either, the problem is Allen, Rodgers seems to like him and he's **** and even more injury prone than Lucas.

I think we need to sell some players, Allen is crocked so he cannot be sold.

Maybe they think Rossiter can cover?

If we do as you suggest, good idea, and take the Europa seriously then I think Lucas can get plenty of games with us and Rossiter can get plenty of minutes as a sub and in Europa.

[~LFCHistory~]

Like who?

I've no idea. There must be at least one DM available in Europe on Lucas' level or better who's young, not overpriced and willing to come here.

[billy_mac]

He has reinvented himself from the player he was when Rafa singed him. I was unconvinced for a long time but he's been boss for at least three/two years when fit. He'd be first name on my team sheet in any tricky game and I was delighted to see him start.

Its a squad game and horses for courses. I'd see him as he's vital to success over a season if Rodgers can manage the squad, but not necessary in every game. If that's not enough for him and he wants to leave then everyone has to expect that at this stage of his career. He owes us nothing for £5m, especially if Joe Allen has priority over him in the pecking order.

He seems a top bloke and good influence but I think his wages will probably dictate his future over the next week as we look to balance the books.

[baitman]

we have a bit of a problem here...

if lucas goes and we replace him with someone like gary medal then im ok with that. a good dm and also more versatile as he can go box to box when needed.

hendo, lallana and allen [spits] all injured and suddenly we have to turn to lucas as the only other senior midfielder available.

if we then replace lucas its a like for like replacement. we are still down to the bare bones...

[TheElephantMan]

I'm a big fan of Lucas, think he's one of our best players. Clearly he's going, good luck to him. I hope he's more appreciated by his new manager and club.

[Shaggy]

If he wants to leave there's nothing we can do but he shouldn't have been put in this position in the first place IMO. Make him feel wanted. I'd be playing him in pretty much all the away games. I can understand going another way with the midfield set-up for home games, but I thought he was terrific again tonight before he understandably tired. Our best performances last season came with him in the side (and the back 3) and I wouldn't be packing him off yet. Really hope he stays.

[redmike65]

If Lucas WANTS to leave then he will as unlike Borini and Enrique he is a pro who wants to play. Lets wait and see.

[BigChief]

What is this 'Joe Allen' you speak off

He is the wise adviser to Debbie of Maddox.

[Mark79]

Interesting

@IanDoyleSport: Asked if he expects Lucas to be Liverpool player next Tuesday, BR says: Yes, he's a big part of what we want to do here.

Fits in with the stories about all this - Rodgers wants him stay, but as a squad player. Lucas has decided to leave for regular football.

Looks like he's off.

[badpiggy]

What is this 'Joe Allen' you speak off

The ghost of Rodgers past

[Buzzo]

Joe Allen

What is this 'Joe Allen' you speak off

[Assassin]

I feel kinda sorry for Lucas but I honestly don't think that he's ever been as good as some on here make out. I'm also sympathetic to the idea that Rodgers isn't into the whole DM thing anyway. I think it's reasonable, even if it's seen as old-fashioned, that CMs should be aggressive in defence and progressive in attack. It's an ideal to aim for just as much as a DM is an ideal. He should be there as backup to Milner I think but Milner might be more of what Rodgers wants in terms of aggression and drive. If our fullbacks continue to play as well as they have, a lot of our defensive problems will be sorted out. I hope Lucas does well wherever he goes. It's tough to see such a loyal, uncomplaining pro getting the thumbs down from the manager.

You're a badpiggy

[badpiggy]

I feel kinda sorry for Lucas but I honestly don't think that he's ever been as good as some on here make out. I'm also sympathetic to the idea that Rodgers isn't into the whole DM thing anyway. I think it's reasonable, even if it's seen as old-fashioned, that CMs should be aggressive in defence and progressive in attack. It's an ideal to aim for just as much as a DM is an ideal. He should be there as backup to Milner I think but Milner might be more of what Rodgers wants in terms of aggression and drive. If our fullbacks continue to play as well as they have, a lot of our defensive problems will be sorted out. I hope Lucas does well wherever he goes. It's tough to see such a loyal, uncomplaining pro getting the thumbs down from the manager.

[Assassin]

Joe Allen

He's as lightweight as our Lee

[SB]

If we can sign a good replacement it's not madness at all.

agree