Lucas: Stevie has been my role model
Lucas Leiva explained how Steven Gerrard has been his 'role model' since he joined Liverpool, but has vowed to help carry the club forward in the absence of the departing captain.
On Saturday, the 34-year-old made his final appearance at Anfield before a summer move to the United States to start a new adventure with LA Galaxy.
Speaking after the defeat by Crystal Palace, Lucas acknowledged that the No.8 is a rare breed of player, fully deserving of the awe-inspiring send-off he was treated to by supporters.
But the Brazilian remains committed to ensuring Brendan Rodgers' team continue to progress when Gerrard leaves.
"When I first came I was only young, 20 years of age, and he has always been a role model," he told Liverpoolfc.com.
"He's a leader, a captain, and it's not every day you find a player like him.
"Hopefully he can continue his brilliant career and we can take Liverpool forward, because that is what he'd like as well.
"It's an incredible day, today. Of course, we lost the game but [the day is] for Stevie and all that he's done for the club.
"The way he treats everyone - he treats everyone the same way - it's a sad day. I think it will be important for us as well going forward to use his example and hopefully we can take this club forward."
Lucas also called for his teammates to believe in their ability to cope with life without their go-to man.
"I think Liverpool had many big players and at some point they leave, that's normal," he added.
"The football club is still here and the fans. We just have to believe."