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Brazilian star admits how close he came to leaving Liverpool

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Steven Deeks
 @ September 9th, 2015

Lucas Leiva has admitted how close he came to leaving Liverpool in the summer before his move away fell through at the last minute.

The Brazilian looked to be on his way out of the club after falling out of favour with manager Brendan Rodgers for the opening matches of the campaign before he was reinstated for the draw against Arsenal.

The 28-year-old is competing with the likes of Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Joe Allen in the pecking order for a central midfield spot at Anfield.

Relations between Rodgers and Lucas have apparently been strained due to his bit part role, which almost saw him leave for Besiktas before he decided against the move.

Lucas has also previously been linked with a switch to Inter Milan and other Serie A sides.

But despite coming close to leave during the last two summer windows he is now prepared to earn his place in the side.

“I think the last couple of years, every transfer window my name is [linked with a move],” he told liverpoolfc.com.

“Of course there are times when you think you might have to move on and I was very close to moving but one thing I will always have is commitment to this club.

“I’ve been here so long and I always said if I had the choice to be here and be happy, I would always choose Liverpool.

“When your future is in doubt, you might have to think of another solution, but I’m happy that it didn’t happen and I’m here to fight for the club as I have been doing for eight years.”

He added: “I’m just looking forward to a good season and putting Liverpool back where it belongs. I have this chance to say I’m fully committed.

“I’ve been here so long and I really love this club, I just need to now focus on my performance and help in the way the manager and the staff asked me to help.

“Hopefully, I’ll be an important player for the club this season.”

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