‘Big’ Jordan Henderson claim issued after surprise Liverpool reveal – pundit
Jordan Henderson is very underrated and is almost irreplaceable for Liverpool, according to Noel Whelan.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Premier League forward delivered his verdict after Thiago Alcantara heaped praise on his teammate.
As quoted by club media last month (25 June), the ex-Barcelona and Bayern Munich midfielder revealed Henderson is “one of the best players and midfield players” he has played alongside.
The revelation came as some surprise given the Brazil international has played with Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Sergio Busquets, Toni Kroos, and Xabi Alonso during his illustrious career.
Asked whether he thought Henderson was underrated in England, Whelan told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “Very, I really do.
“I was sceptical about the amount of money that Liverpool paid for him to Sunderland.
“Over the years and up until this day, he’s been one of the most consistent and regular performers for Liverpool and one of the most important performers for Liverpool.
“I’ve got nothing but admiration for the way that he plays the game, the way he handles himself out there on the field and has become that leader for all the squad and the club itself.
“The things he’s done off the field for charities, he’s become a leader of everything.
“I can see why Thiago says that and Thiago is one of the best players in the world himself. To get that recognition was probably lovely to see for Jordan Henderson.
“Liverpool would be worse off without him, that’s the biggest compliment I can give him. He’s such an important player for that football club.
“We talk about bringing in midfield players, like Jude Bellingham, but whoever comes in has big boots to fill because he’s really been fantastic for club and country.
“For Liverpool, he’s been immense and has gone under the radar a lot.”
In other news, Southampton are readying a bid for a Liverpool star and £20million will seal the deal.