Lucas Leiva could be facing another significant period on the sidelines after hobbling out of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday with what appeared to be a thigh injury.

Reds boss Brendan Rodgers was forced to replace the Brazilian with youngster Jonjo Shelvey after just four minutes after the tenacious midfielder began hobbling badly in the opening exchanges. His withdrawal will raise fears around Anfield that Lucas may have fallen victim to another injury, having missed the second half of last season with a serious knee problem. The Brazilian had earlier established himself as a key figure in Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool side and his absence was viewed by many as a reason behind the poor form which led to the Scot’s dismissal this summer.