Lucas: Brazil loves Europa LeagueLucas Leiva has got extra motivation to perform on Thursday nights this season - because everyone in Brazil loves the Europa League.
The 24-year-old claims the competition is a big deal in his homeland, meaning he is even more desperate to end his wait for a medal with Liverpool in Dublin.
"For me it's a big competition," Lucas told Liverpoolfc.tv. "Maybe some people don't give this competition too much importance but in Brazil the Europa League is very important for everyone.
"I am looking forward to getting through to the next stage and why not dream of the title? We have a good team, though there are still a lot of games to go and things to improve.
"Unfortunately I still don't have medals but when you come to Liverpool you come to win trophies and that's the way you have to always think. When you retire all you have are the good clubs you have played for and the trophies you have won."
Liverpool are currently 1-0 down to Portuguese outfit Braga after an Alan penalty separated the sides at 'The Quarry' last week.
Lucas accepts a big improvement is needed when the tie resumes in front of the Anfield lights this Thursday.
"We were not happy because we didn't score an away goal and we know how important that is," he said. "Also our performance, especially in the first half, wasn't good enough - it wasn't the way we planned.
"I'm sure we'll play better on Thursday and we'll have big chances to score. At the end of the day we have to play better and we'll play with confidence because of our fans.
"We must keep the ball better. If we have more possession we'll be more dangerous."
Liverpool's second-half improvement in Braga was down in no small part to the introduction of Andy Carroll for what was his second substitute appearance since recovering from a thigh injury.
Lucas thinks our record signing will present particular difficulties for European defenders.
"The introduction of Andy gave us a lot of options," said the No.21.
"He is still getting his fitness back but I'm sure when he's okay he'll help us. Especially in European games. They are not used to playing against a big striker who can win balls in the air and score a lot of goals like he can.
"We don't want to put extra pressure on him because he's coming back slowly but he's already shown that he's capable of changing games."
If Liverpool are to progress they will have to do so without Steven Gerrard in midfield after the skipper underwent surgery on a damaged groin.
So does that put extra responsibility on Lucas's shoulders?
"I always feel a lot of pressure and responsibility because the role I have in the team is very important," said the man himself. "It's a difficult role.
"Without Steve - he's a big player and for sure we'll miss him but even without him we can win this game."
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