Liverpool will be tested by Lucas injury blow - Kenny Dalglish

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish says the club will be tested by midfielder Lucas Leiva's absence with a knee injury.

"It is a huge disappointment for everybody but more importantly for Lucas," said Dalglish.

"It is at times like this you are tested but we have been happy with the squad and the results reflect that."

The Liverpool manager added: "We are disappointed he has picked up an injury but it is not career-threatening.

"He's been playing well for us but it is part and parcel of football, I suppose.

"Lucas is not moping about feeling sorry for himself. We can do that, we can feel sorry for him.

"But we cannot feel sorry for ourselves and we have plenty of people who can have a go and won't let us down.

"You saw at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night there were a lot of really good performances.

On Tuesday, Lucas tweeted: "I am really sad with the news because I was enjoying a lot on the pitch.

"I am sure I will come back stronger I will achieve everything that I dream with the LFC shirt.

"I am sure I'll NEVER WALK ALONE."

The Brazil international, who arrived at Anfield from Gremio in 2007, will have surgery before a prolonged spell out of action.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been absent with ankle infection since 22 October, so the club have recalled 19-year-old midfielder Jonjo Shelvey from his loan at Blackpool as cover.

Jordan Henderson, who has mostly been deployed on the right of midfield since his £20m move from Sunderland in the summer - or Jay Spearing - may fill in alongside Charlie Adam in the centre of Liverpool midfield.

After struggling for form during his first few years at Liverpool, Lucas has become a key part of the Merseysiders' midfield filling the anchorman role left vacant by Javier Mascherano's departure to Barcelona in August 2010.

He signed a contract extension in March and has started 12 of the Reds' first 13 Premier League games this term.