Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admits it is heartening to see Lucas Leiva fit again.
The Brazilian midfielder has had a wretched run with injuries over the past few seasons but is now back as a regular starter and Rodgers is thrilled for him after so much time spent in rehabilitation.
"I've been delighted with Lucas," he told the Liverpool Echo. "We were very wary of the fact he had had a serious knee injury last season, and then obviously another problem on top of that this season.
"It was important for the team to get him back, but it was important for him that we did so at the right pace and that we paced his recovery right.
"It is a big credit to him as a professional. He has worked so hard, and his attitude and his application has been first class. He deserves every praise for the way he has conducted himself."
