Mid-match tribute to Lucas has divided opinion among supporters

Classy or OTT?

Darragh Murphy

Mid-match tribute to Lucas has divided opinion among supporters

As much as Lucas Leiva should be applauded for his service to Liverpool, some believe the tributes swiftly got out of hand.

Leiva’s 10-year tenure as a Reds player ended this week, when he officially signed for Lazio for £5 million, and his message to the club’s supporters in the wake of his departure was typically classy.

“Liverpool as a club and Liverpool as a city is a unique place. I think it’s different from everywhere. While I am saddened that my days at Anfield are coming to an end, I can at least take comfort from the knowledge that my relationship with Liverpool and the supporters is stronger than ever.”

In response to the Brazilian’s farewell, the Liverpool squad gathered to record a video message to Leiva, with several players issuing personal words of thanks for what he’d done for them.

The #LFC squad say their goodbyes to @LucasLeiva87 from Hong Kong.#ThanksLucas pic.twitter.com/9mQ20ip21t

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 18, 2017

And if you thought the tributes would end there, think again.

During Liverpool’s preseason meeting with Crystal Palace in Hong Kong, a minute’s applause was organised in the 21st minute to honour the contribution of Liverpool’s outgoing No. 21.

Understandably, hardcore Reds supporters felt that the gesture was a fitting one considering everything the 30-year-old had given to the Anfield cause.

#LFC fans Hong Kong applause in the 21st minute for Lucas @LucasLeiva87 👏
Class!

— RHidayat (@RHidayat86) July 19, 2017

Class from #LFC fans in Hong Kong, applauses in the stadium in the 21st minute to honour Lucas. @LucasLeiva87

— Rishabh (@riiiiisshh) July 19, 2017

Took me most of the minute to work out that round of applause in Hong Kong was for Lucas. Very nice touch.

— Ryan (@ryan3levis) July 19, 2017

Fans applauding in 21st minute for Lucas that's amazing 👏👍

— Denny (@FRFCdenny) July 19, 2017

While other fans were quick to note that Lucas remains, in fact, alive and that the tributes may have become a tad excessive for a player who’s simply moved to a different club.