Lucas: He is a proper Brazilian
Lucas Leiva says the Reds' capture of compatriot Philippe Coutinho gives the team a 'proper Brazilian'.
The 26-year-old knows the attacking midfielder better than most, having played in the same match that Coutinho made his single international appearance to date.
Lucas has retained a close eye on the former Inter Milan youngster's progress ever since - and he feels his new teammate can prove an excellent signing for the club.
He explained to the Liverpool Echo: "Coutinho is a very talented player. He is very young but he has a lot of experience already.
"I had the chance to watch him when he got his first cap for Brazil a couple of years ago as we were both in the team.
"He is a proper Brazilian with a lot of skill and he likes to play with the ball and score goals.
"He had a very good spell at Espanyol when he was on loan last season and I think he will be a great player for the future for us."
Although only 20, Coutinho already has a wealth of experience at club and international level - and Lucas has no concerns about the Rio native adapting to the Barclays Premier League.
"I think he will be able to cope," he added.
"Of course in Italy it's a different type of game but he has experience of playing in both Serie A and La Liga.
"We hope he settles very quickly. Hopefully he will feel comfortable and play really well for us."
Coutinho is the fifth Brazilian to join the Reds, following in the footsteps of Lucas as well as Fabio Aurelio, Alexander Doni and Diego Cavalieri.
Lucas revealed that he briefed manager Brendan Rodgers about his latest signing.
The midfielder concluded: "The manager spoke with me but not to ask about his talents as I think he was sure about that already.
"He just wanted to know what I knew about Coutinho as a person. I only had positive things to say.
"I know he doesn't speak much English so I will try to help as much as I can to make him feel at home.
"We have Luis, Coates and myself here. We will all try to make him feel really comfortable. We'll make sure he settles very quickly like Luis and Coates and is able to show his qualities."