Lucas pens Liverpool extension

Liverpool have secured the services of Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva on a new long-term deal.

The exact length of the deal has not yet been made public by the Premier League club.

Lucas arrived at Anfield in 2007 and despite enduring a difficult start to his career on Merseyside has become a key fixture within Kenny Dalglish’s side.

Dalglish said he was thrilled the 24-year-old had decided to extend his stay.

“We are delighted,” Dalglish said. “He is a smashing lad to have around the football club but he hasn’t been signed for that, he has been signed because of what he does on the pitch.”

“Certainly since I came in he has been a great asset to the team and has done tremendously well.”

“He’s got wee (baby son) Pedro to look after and now a new contract as well, and we’re delighted for him because he’s a really honest, genuine fella and that’s reflected in the way he plays.”

“He’s happy to be here and play for the club and he’s getting everything that he deserves at the moment – including being a fixture in the Brazilian team – because of what he’s done on the pitch.”

Lucas took to microblogging website Twitter to announce the news, writing: “Very Happy DAY !!!! Just to let you all know I have signed a new deal with Liverpool.”