John Aldridge calls for Lucas Leiva return against Arsenal

Liverpool legend John Aldridge has called for Lucas Leiva to be recalled by Brendan Rodgers for Monday's trip to Arsenal.

The Brazilian's future has been plunged into doubt after being left out of the squad for the opening-weekend win away at Stoke City, and the Reds are believed to be willing to listen to offers for the Brazilian.

However, Aldridge feels that the defensive-minded Lucas will be needed when Rodgers's side take on Arsene Wenger's men at the Emirates next week.

The ex-Republic of Ireland international striker told the Liverpool Echo: "I'd play Lucas and I think we could have done with him at times against Bournemouth when we looked a little bit open and things got a bit tetchy. He's our only player for that situation. Henderson doesn't do it, Milner doesn't do it, Allen does it a little bit.

"Milner could then be moved out to the right for the game to make us more solid.

"I know he's been promised that he'll play centrally but sometimes the manager has to say 'just take one for the team' and there's nothing to stop him going back to the centre the following week."

Lucas signed for the Reds in the summer of 2007.