Lucas Leiva Reaffirms Liverpool Commitment Following Transfer Uncertainty

Lucas Leiva insists he is ready to put a summer of speculation regarding his future behind him in order continue doing what he has always done since joining Liverpool — “fight for the club.”

The Brazilian was linked with an Anfield departure throughout the transfer window but remained a Reds player by the close of play on deadline day.

In the days prior to Sept. 1, the midfielder evidenced his importance to the squad with a strong performance against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in his first start of the season.

And although he admits the chance to move on did present itself during the window, the 28-year-old says that staying on Merseyside was always his first thought.

“It’s been very intense (the window), to be honest,” Leiva told Liverpoolfc.com. “I think the last couple of years, every transfer window my name is (linked with a move).

“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.

“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.”