Lucas aims for Christmas cheer

Lucas Leiva has spoken of his determination to help provide Liverpool fans with the perfect Christmas gift – three points against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Brazilian midfielder is eager for the Reds to sign off from another year at Anfield on a high, but has warned the newly-promoted side should not be underestimated on Boxing Day.

He told Liverpoolfc.tv: "It would be good and really important to finish the year (at Anfield) with a victory.

"I think we need to win almost every game now, so our target is to take each game as it comes and end the year well. Then, if we can also start the New Year with a win it will be important.

"But Wolves have quality. We have to respect them and try to show our own quality and play well for the fans.

"All games are tough in the Premier League, so we have to prepare well, work hard and have confidence. We have quality and if we can play well we can beat anyone."

While many will enjoy the festivities at home on Christmas Day, Lucas and his teammates will be at Melwood putting the finishing touches to their preparations for the clash with Wolves.

Lucas believes the tradition of playing through the holiday period is unique to England - but it's one he relishes.

"Normally, we will train in the morning on Christmas Day," he said.

"It's strange because in Brazil the season finishes in November, so you are on holiday for Christmas, while in Spain and Italy they have a break.

"Here it is different, but you have to prepare for the games. Hopefully we can do well and get as many points as possible.

"For the fans, Boxing Day games are really good. I think it is good for them to be able to take their family to a match and enjoy it, so I hope we can give them a victory."