Lucas hopes Liverpool's season-opening Europa League victory is a sign of good things to come this season.
Reds midfielder hoping for more of the same
Midfielder Lucas is hoping Liverpool's season-opening Europa League victory is a sign of more good things to come.
With several World Cup players having only recently returned to training, and others still on holiday, manager Roy Hodgson chose to field an inexperienced Reds side against FK Rabotnicki in Macedonia on Thursday.
Lucas, one of just a handful of senior players to feature, captained Liverpool to a comfortable 2-0 win, with David Ngog scoring both goals.
And with the second leg of the third round qualifier looming at Anfield next week and a new Premier League campaign just around the corner, Brazilian Lucas is keen for the Reds to build on their encouraging start to the season.
Important
"We are really pleased. It is our first win of the season and it was an important game," said Lucas.
"We got two away goals against a difficult team, so we have started the right way.
"Hopefully we will keep the same for the next match."
Lucas played alongside youngster Jay Spearing as Liverpool eased to victory, while Alberto Aquilani featured behind lone striker Ngog.
With more experienced players such as Steven Gerrard, Joe Cole and Javier Mascherano training back on Merseyside, Lucas says competition is strong for a spot in midfield.
"Jay was fantastic and Alberto is getting the fitness back," added Lucas. "This is good for the team, this is good for the season.
"When you have good competition with good players it will always be good for the team.
"The first two friendlies were to get our fitness back. Now for the official game we were 100% and we were ready.
"The shape of the team was really good and hopefully we will keep doing the same, but we still have to play the second leg. We have to make sure we beat them again."
Opportunity
Fledgling midfielder Spearing was grateful for the opportunity to make an impact on new manager Roy Hodgson.
"It's a massive season for me, with a new manager I've got to try to impress," said Spearing.
"It was a chance for me and the other young lads, (David) Amoo and (Martin) Kelly, to show the boss what we are capable of.
"We have got to try to show the boss as many times as we can that we can stay in it. I've got to show him I'm capable of sticking around."
