I think people are forgetting that Lucas was a different player before he came to England. Far more of a playmaker, box-to-box. He was asked to change his role into that of a holding player, one of the most tactically demanding for a young player to fulfil, and obviously struggled for some time in transition. Lucas was a downright poor tackler when he came in. Now he is one of the best in the league.
He didn't win player of the year in Brazil by just being a tidy player. He may not be Alonso, but he does have a good passing range. In particular his through balls are of very high quality. He's been playing within himself, generally picking the safest option at all times, for most of his career in England, but I think we saw his talent emerging in the second half of last season. Much more incisive and ambitious passing, more drive and engine. Still needs to work on his shooting and has yet to get his first header on target in the prem. But he is more than just a tidy player and his potential as a player goes a fair bit beyond that.
He's spent his first years in England picking up the skills you need to be a succesful midfielder in England. Tackling, positional sense, ball retention, upper body strength, stamina. These were his weakest points when he came here and essential for the role he was being asked to play. Now they are among his strongest. Up to himself now to show what made him a player in Brazil.
