Liverpool have confirmed that midfielder Lucas Leiva will be out for the rest of the season.
The Brazilian injured his knee in Tuesday night's Carling Cup win over Chelsea and a scan has revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament which will require surgery.
"The Brazil international will undergo surgery and unfortunately be ruled out for the remainder of the current campaign," said a statement from the club.
The absence of Lucas will be a huge hole to cover as he been a regular fixture over the past 18 or so months. Jay Spearing looks most likely to be given the chance in the defensive midfield role whilst Jonjo Shelvey has been recalled from Championship club Blackpool as cover.
