Ipswich fan Lucas says the change in system from Gary O'Neil to play three centre-backs alongside two full-backs gave the team "a lot of stability" in Saturday's narrow 3-2 defeat at Manchester City.

Despite leaving Etihad Stadium empty-handed, O'Neil's side delivered a determined, collective effort which saw them pushing for an equaliser right until the final whistle after.

"There was a lot to be proud of," said Lucas when phoning into The Blue Hour with Brenner Woolley on BBC Radio Suffolk.

"You go to these places hoping for points but when you put in a performance like that in a game you have to look at as a free hit for a team trying to stay up then you can take a lot away.

"Against that sort of opposition I wouldn't be opposed to seeing that system again, it gives us a lot of stability. It might not help us out as much going forward but having that extra body at the back definitely helps."

O'Neil was full of praise post-match for summer signing Exequiel Palacios, who looked assured and calm on the ball in midfield.

"He played really well and showed he is comfortable at the level," Lucas added on the Argentina international's performance.

"Looking back at the squad we had in that game a few seasons ago, I don't think many were. He showed he can play and thrive at this high level."

After the Deadline Day signing of Zian Flemming, he and Emersonn are now battling it out for O'Neil's starting striker role. Emersonn started at the weekend, but Flemming scored a penalty off the bench and now has two league goals despite not yet starting for his new side.

"It depends on the type of game," Lucas explained.

"In a game like Man City away Emersonn gives you more in holding the ball up and bringing the full-backs into the game more. But, when you're going for a game, like Friday night against Nottingham Forest, I'm not against Flemming starting either.

"You look at our next three games and I think we can really get two wins. I don't think that is out of the question and would be great going into the next international break."