Kenny Dalglish today paid tribute to Lucas as the Liverpool midfielder prepares to make his 100th league appearance for the club.
Despite enduring a difficult start to his Reds' career, the Brazilian has now established himself as an integral member of the Liverpool side - and is also making strides at international level after playing for Brazil against France in midweek when he wore the number five shirt made famous by current boss Dunga.
"It was interesting to see him playing for Brazil on Wednesday," said Dalglish. "They have had some fantastic players in his position and the best known was was Dunga, who won World Cups and went on to manage the national side.
"I've always said Lucas is highly thought of in Brazil, probably more than in Britain, but certainly not at Liverpool.
"I don't know why he has started playing so well. Maybe he just needed time to settle. Whatever the reason, we're just grateful for the job that he's doing.
"We have always appreciated what he can do. Last Sunday he was as good as anyone on the pitch at Chelsea. So to see him playing for Brazil wasn't really a surprise for me.
"I don't think Lucas is going to be the one who beats five or six players and puts it into the back of the net. But he may be the one who stops the guy going past the first fella then sets us on our way.
"He's an important member of the team. Most teams have someone like that in the ranks and we are no different.
"The fact he started on Wednesday for Brazil tells you they must be very pleased with him as well, and the performances he's put in for us mean he's deserved it."
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