Lucas Leiva is convinced he is working for the best manager in the world in Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.

"Benitez is the most knowledgeable manager in the world, he continues to prove his qualities," Lucas told the Daily Post.

"I knew Mascherano before I came here because I played against him in Brazil. He is a young player but is improving with every match. He can be one of the best midfielders in the world.

"And what can you say about Gerrard? He is a fantastic player, he is our captain and is a very good player.

"I have enjoyed so much playing alongside Steven Gerrard. Every match, every training session, he shows what a wonderful player he is.

"I am learning so much from him. I am gaining so much experience playing alongside him, and I know he will score the goals that will send us through."

He added: "English football is totally different from Brazilian football. The tempo is higher and you don't have too much time to think. It's very physical, but I think my game suits that.

"I am adapting well to English football and English life. I like playing here because it's the best league in the world. A few years ago players wanted to go to Italy and Spain but in the last few years you see very good teams here. Now we have three teams in the semi-finals of the Champions League."