The midfielder says that the Reds are supporting the Uruguayan in the aftermath of his 10-match ban and hopes that the punishment will not force the striker away from the club

Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva says the club are supporting Luis Suarez in the aftermath of his 10-match ban and hopes that it will not force the striker to leave Anfield.

The Brazilian says that the striker, who will not been seen until next season after biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic, understands that he deserved to be punished and has now vowed to return a stronger person.

“As players, we are all right behind him, he’s an important player for this club and he’s also a person we have to help,” Lucas told the press.

“He’s OK now. He knows that he will have to miss a few games but he will come back strongly from this.

“He will try to come back as a better footballer if possible and a better person, too. We hope that he can relax now and really work on things he thinks he can improve on.

“The fact the fans sung his name so much [during the 6-0 win] at St James’ Park just showed the love they have for Luis. For sure, he loves this club as well.”

Goal.com exclusively revealed on April 22 that Liverpool are willing to listen to offers from abroad of over €47 million in the aftermath of the striker’s latest controversy but Lucas hopes that the Uruguayan will remain at the club.

“We all hope Luis will still be a Liverpool player next season. I have been with Luis almost every day since what happened,” Lucas continued.

“I haven’t discussed his future with him. We don’t talk about it as that’s his private business. I can’t tell what he has in mind but he has a contract and I think every player here is looking forward to next season.”