Liverpool boss expects Lucas Leiva stay

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has rejected reports linking midfielder Lucas Leiva with an exit from the club.

It had been recently reported that the Brazilian international was closing in on a loan switch to Besiktas, having fallen down the pecking order at the Merseyside giants.

However, Rodgers has dismissed the claims by insisting that the player remains in his plans for the ongoing campaign.

"Yes. Lucas is our best defensive midfield player. There are games where I play three midfield players but not always with a defensive specific one, but when we do need that, he is the best one we have." he told reporters

Leiva started for Liverpool during their goalless draw against Arsenal at the Emirates on Monday night.