Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez insists he's pleased with the progress of Brazilian youngster Lucas Leiva this season.

"We have received offers for Lucas, maybe 10 clubs in Spain and Italy want to take him," he said. "That is how good he is. I have faith in Lucas. When I put him on for Gerrard in the Merseyside derby, it is because I believe he can have an impact in games, and he has played really well recently.

"He has a very good mentality, and is a player of top quality. He will be a top player, that is certain.

"But he already is a top player, he was captain of Brazil Under-21, and has won two cups with the national team."