Luis Suarez sends 'emotional' message to former Liverpool teammate

Gremio striker Luis Suarez has congratulated former Liverpool teammate Lucas Leiva on his retirement.

As per BBC Sport, Lucas has been forced to hang up his boots following the discovery of a heart-related issue. The news has promoted an outpouring of love from so many of the 36-year-old’s former colleagues at Liverpool.

Having spent three-and-a-half years together at Anfield, Suarez and Lucas know each other pretty well. The two were actually reunited this summer when the Uruguayan joined the Brazilian at Gremio.

So, Lucas’ enforced decision will have perhaps hit home even more poignantly for Suarez. As a result, El Pistolero took to his Instagram stories to post a picture of he and Lucas celebrating together whilst at Liverpool.

“My friend Lucas Leiva, congratulations for your marvellous career,” Suarez wrote in Spanish. “We will always be supporting you and your family’s success for everything that comes, it will be even better I’m sure.”

“Impossible not to get emotional,” added Suarez, next to the video of a tearful Lucas announcing his decision.

Lucas says goodbye in troubling circumstances

What a sad sight it was to see Lucas weeping as he waved goodbye to his playing career. He may not have been the most celebrated player to ever wear the Liverpool shirt, but he was one of the most commited.

His dedication to being a red always came through loud and clear. Whether he was at Lazio or Gremio, you always felt he’d rather be at Liverpool. In any circumstance, it would be a wrench to see a man like that retire. But the circumstances surrounding Lucas’ premature exit make it all the more emotional.

Recognising this, it was also brilliant to see Liverpool icon Kenny Dalglish reach out to Lucas on Saturday. King Kenny has been public with his admiration of the player and man that he coached for 18 months at Liverpool, and that was evident in a lovely Twitter message yesterday evening.

“Lucas – I hope everything is OK. The respect you have in Liverpool is truly genuine. We are all here if we can be of any help whatsoever, and we wish you luck in your next chapter. These pictures speak louder than any words. YNWA,” wrote Dalgish.

A message echoed by Liverpool fans the world over. All the best in your retirement, Lucas. Hopefully see you back at Anfield very soon.

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