Lucas Leiva says that he is ready to put his injury problems behind him and get back to top form following his return to first-team action for Liverpool.

The Brazilian played the majority of the 90 minutes in the Merseysiders’ 1-0 win over Southampton on Saturday and the midfielder compared his comeback to his debut as a professional in 2005.

He told Sky Sports: “I was really looking forward to the game and the feeling against Southampton was the same as my first match for Gremio.

“I played more minutes than people were expecting and now it is just a question of games and training sessions, that is the only way I will get to the level I was.

“I think it was really positive, especially as it is a year since my first injury. I was really pleased with the performance. I need to improve a lot but that is a good step I have made.”

The 25-year-old has become a favourite at Anfield in recent times after initially struggling to make an impact on English soil and the Brazil international was keen to acknowledge the fans for their support.

He added: “Everyone knows it has been a long journey for me to turn around the opinion of people but they really appreciate the work I do for the team and the passion I have for the club.”