Among most there's the acceptance that Liverpool's fate for the 2012-2013 Premier League season lies somewhere near where they've been over the past few seasons. There's certainly reason for hope and optimism, but looking at the long haul and a lack of depth has more than a few justifiably concerned. Enter Lucas, who's been a bolt of positivity since working his way back early from last season's ACL tear. His play in the preseason, including both legs of the Gomel tie, has been roundly excellent, and he's shown early signs of getting himself back to top form both mentally and physically. And, as it would follow, that's where he's hoping the club are headed as well. "Hopefully we can get a Champions League spot and that’s what we’re aiming for. It’s not going to be as easy as a couple of years ago when maybe there was only four teams going for those top four places. It’ll be very hard, many clubs like City and Tottenham are doing well now. We have a tough start to the season, especially at home, but we just have to make sure we go game by game."