Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva has admitted that he cannot wait to return to action ahead of the club's pre-season campaign.

The 25-year-old has not played for the Reds since injuring knee ligaments in December 2011, and he was not expected to return until 2013.

However, the Brazilian has claimed that he is on course for a return and has deemed himself "available" for selection.

"It's been a long seven, eight months for me, recovering. But I'm feeling well and better every single day, recharging, and getting my confidence back. I think tomorrow will be an important step. [I'm] looking forward to coming back and wearing the Liverpool shirt again. That I missed a lot," he told reporters.

"At the beginning the time of the recovery was nine months but luckily I could come back a bit early. I really put up targets in my head and I wanted to be available for pre-season.

"I'm available now and I'm sure I'll be fit. When I feel comfortable I'm sure the manager and the medical staff will give me the confidence to go to the pitch and play."

Lucas joined Liverpool from Gremio in 2007.