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Lucas Leiva says the spirit in Jurgen Klopp’s squad is the best he’s known during his decade at Liverpool.

The Brazilian midfielder believes that sense of unity and camaraderie is fuelling the Reds’ challenge for the Premier League title.

Liverpool sit second in the table, five points adrift of leaders Chelsea. Wednesday night’s EFL Cup semi-final first leg at Southampton is followed by Sunday’s crunch Premier League clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

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Lucas was part of the Reds side which competed for the title in both 2008/09 and 2013/14, but came up just short on both occasions.

“I think in terms of spirit it is probably the best since I’ve been here,” Lucas said.

“We have a very good group of players. There is not one player who tries to be the main man.

“It is really about team work and it is really good to work with all of them.

“It has been working really well for us at the moment and hopefully we can carry on working like that and the end of the season will be a positive one.”

Lucas relished the chance to start Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Plymouth in the third round of the FA Cup at Anfield and is hoping to retain his place at St Mary’s.

Having spent his career as a holding midfielder, the 30-year-old has been used as a back-up centre-half by Klopp so far this season.

“Everyone is ready to play,” he added.

“Hopefully I can play as I played in all the rounds until now. It is a competition we want to do well in as we came very close last year.

“Hopefully we can have two good games in the semi-final against a very difficult team and get to the final.

(Image: 2016 Getty Images)

“I have to adapt to playing centre-back. I’ve played there many times and every game you feel more comfortable but there are things you have to learn.

“I am a midfield player and I am learning another position, which is good as it helps me for the future.”