Jordan Henderson will grow at Liverpool - Lucas

Henderson won his first England cap against France in November 2010

Liverpool midfielder Lucas has backed Jordan Henderson to to be a success at Anfield, but insists he needs to be given time to settle on Merseyside.

Henderson, 21, moved from Sunderland in June for a reported £20m.

Lucas told BBC Radio Merseyside: "We just have to encourage him and give him confidence so he can keep improving.

"He's already adapted with the Premier League but to change clubs and to come to such a big club like Liverpool it's always going to be hard."

England international Henderson opened his goalscoring account for Liverpool in the 3-1 win over Bolton in August and has made seven appearances for the club this season.

Brazil's Lucas added: "I don't blame the young players because I've been in their place for a few years.

"I think he's played well and he'll get more confidence with more minutes on the pitch and understand the role that's he's being asked to do.

"He has the potential to be a good player but he's still very young. We'll give him time and we'll be patient and I'm sure he'll be a good player."

Liverpool face local rivals Everton in the 216th Merseyside derby on Saturday and Lucas says the game will be a tricky as ever.

"It's an important game away from home," he continued. "Everton have lost a few good players in the summer but they have a really good squad.

"Derbies are always difficult and we'll see everyone talking about the game. We just have to prepare well and try to get the three points."