Liverpool’s Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva will miss the rest of the season due to a serious knee injury suffered in the midweek Carling Cup win at Chelsea.
The 24-year-old was carried from the Stamford Bridge pitch 20 minutes from time as the Reds, 13/8 with bookmaker to win the Carling Cup, won 2-0 to reach the semi-finals, where they will face Premier League leaders Manchester City.
The loss of Lucas leaves Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish with a quandary of who to play in a central midfield role alongside Charlie Adam, with skipper Steven Gerrard also currently sidelined by injury.
Jonjo Shelvey has been recalled from his loan spell at Blackpool, while summer signing Jordan Henderson may be asked to move inside from the right flank to cover for Lucas.
Jay Spearing is another option for Dalglish, whose side are unbeaten in their last 11 games in all competitions ahead of Monday night’s league trip to Fulham.
