Liverpool FC News: Lucas Leiva Braced for Arsenal Role

Jamie CaseyApr 1, 2015

Lucas Leiva has declared himself fully fit and ready to face Arsenal should Brendan Rodgers call upon him at the Emirates this weekend, according to Liverpool's official website.

The Brazilian has not played since hobbling off during the Merseyside derby on Feb. 7, but he was named on the bench for Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United last time out.

With Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel suspended for Saturday's trip to Arsenal, Lucas' return to fitness comes as a timely boost for Rodgers.

TOP NEWS

Real Madrid CF v Girona FC - LaLiga EA Sports

Bleacher Report1w

Real Betis V Real Madrid - Laliga Ea Sports

Bleacher Report1w

In the absence of the influential Skrtel—who has started 27 of Liverpool’s 30 Premier League games this season, per WhoScored.com—Lucas could be deployed in a deep midfield role to protect a weakened defence.

However, with Liverpool having lost only once in the Premier League in 2015, Lucas admits he's unsure if Rodgers will mix things up at Arsenal. But the 28-year-old is ready to step in if required.

"Leading into the Arsenal game I will have had three full weeks of training and I'm looking forward to it," Lucas said.

"I don't know if Stevie's suspension will change things because the team were playing well, but I need to be ready and there are a lot of games to play and the FA Cup as well, so everyone will be needed. I need to be ready and if I get a chance again I need to be at the same level I was before I was injured."

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 07: Referee Anthony Taylor signals to the bench as Lucas Leiva of Liverpool sits on the turf injured during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on February 7, 2015 in Liverpool, E

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

April is set to be a crucial month for Liverpool's season, as a loss at Arsenal could also signify defeat in their attempts to finish inside the Premier League's top four.

After the Emirates trip, Liverpool travel to Blackburn for a tricky FA Cup replay, with a place in the semi-final at Wembley against Aston Villa at stake.

Failure to succeed on both parts could see the Reds struggle to retain and attract key players this summer, with Raheem Sterling delaying contract talks while the club’s fate remains up in the air.

The trip to Ewood Park is followed by games against Newcastle (home), Hull (away) and West Brom (away), all of which take place this month.

Follow @jamiecasey37