Lucas scoops monthly award

Lucas Leiva was today crowned Standard Chartered's player of the month for November.

The midfielder scooped the award after tallying a massive 65 per cent off the vote. Craig Bellamy came second with eight per cent while Luis Suarez was third (six per cent)..

Lucas, who has been one of the Reds' most consistent performers this term, enjoyed a magnificent November prior to picking up a long-term injury in the Carling Cup win at Chelsea.

The No.21 was outstanding in the 2-1 league success at Stamford Bridge and was also the clear man of the match in Liverpool's 1-1 draw at home to Manchester City.

The Brazil international is currently out of the country recovering from surgery on his knee and, in his absence, compatriot Fabio Aurelio was on hand to receive the award on his behalf.

Aurelio told Liverpoolfc.tv: "He is very unfortunate to have suffered the injury because he was in such a good moment. It took him a lot of time and hard work to get to the level he was at - both in terms of confidence and fitness.

"This season he started very well and was helping us a lot. We will miss him.

"After the injury he was a bit down because he realised the season was over for him. But I spoke to him yesterday and he is feeling much better now. He is trying to be positive and is looking ahead to next season. He wants to make sure he is ready for it."

He added: "Every game I watched I would see Lucas producing amazing performances. I think he deserves this award."