The Brazil international was sent off at Stoke last season

Kenny Dalglish has guided his club to seven points from their opening three Premier League matches and Luis Suarez has inspired some attractive football.

But the match at the hostile Britannia Stadium, where Liverpool have never won in the league, represents a stern examination of their credentials.

Lucas was sent off in a 2-0 defeat to Stoke last season, which was one of the low points of Roy Hodgson's tenure, and the Brazil international is expecting a gruelling encounter before next weekend's trip to Tottenham.

"We know we have two away games now and it's really important to get points in the away games," he told Liverpool's official website. "It always makes a big difference at the end of the season.

"We have to keep going and try to play well - the same way we have in the first three games. If we do, I am sure we will get points and we'll have another good month.

"We know how difficult it is to play against Stoke, especially on their own ground. They have a physical game and big players, and their set pieces are always really difficult to defend. We have to go there ready to fight, try to play football and win.

"A lot of big clubs go there and can't win, but it will be a very good test for us to see how we cope with this type of team."

If Liverpool are to defeat Stoke, they are likely to have to keep former striker Peter Crouch quiet after his £10million transfer deadline day move from Tottenham.

Cameron Jerome was also signed by Tony Pulis on the final day of August, while Lucas knows Kenwyne Jones represents a threat.

"Crouchy is very good in the air and with the ball at his feet. He can make things happen. And we know Jerome was an important player for Birmingham," said the Liverpool midfielder

"They will probably be very excited playing their first game at the stadium for their fans, so we have to be aware of that."