Jürgen Klopp: Lucas has left a legacy at Liverpool
Jürgen Klopp paid tribute to Lucas Leiva after he completed a transfer to Lazio on Tuesday, insisting the midfielder leaves behind a lasting legacy at Liverpool.
After 346 appearances, the Brazilian's 10-year stay with the Reds came to an end when he sealed the switch to Italy.
Reacting to the news, Klopp explained why he feels the manner in which Lucas conducted himself over the course of his decade on Merseyside has set the standards for other players to follow in future.
The manager told Liverpoolfc.com: "Whenever a player leaves a club it is always a sad moment, but even more so when the player is as popular and influential as Lucas.
"It goes without saying that all of the lads wish him the very best and from my own point of view I've got no doubt that he will be a success in Italy because he is one of the best professionals I have worked with.
"But even though he's not going to be at Liverpool anymore he is leaving a legacy behind. He set the standards of what it is to be a Liverpool player and by doing that he gave all of us an example to follow and that will continue after he has gone."
LFC players' messages to Lucas Leiva