Ex-Premier League referee: Jordan Henderson has ‘crossed the line’ as controversial Liverpool footage emerges
Keith Hackett has claimed Liverpool midfield star Jordan Henderson “stepped over the line” by engaging with Aston Villa fans during the Merseysiders’ 3-1 win at Villa Park on Boxing Day.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Fifa and Premier League referee claimed manager Jurgen Klopp may need to put a “quiet word” in the 32-year-old’s ear to prevent any reoccurrences.
As seen in footage posted to Twitter on 26 December, Henderson could be seen engaging with and gesturing towards Aston Villa fans who greeted him with abuse as he took his place on the bench.
The England international played 79 minutes in the heart of midfield as Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners at Villa Park.
Liverpool moved to within five points of the Champions League places with the win – with Klopp’s side facing Leicester in their next Premier League fixture.
Hackett claimed it is “unusual” to see an outburst from the “level-headed” Henderson.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “There’s passion in the game and sometimes players can do silly things.
“He’s a very level-headed guy usually, but he’ll be annoyed to have been substituted – and he just stepped over the line.
“His manager might need to put a quiet word in his ear, but I’m sure he regrets what he’s done.
“This is the kind of thing players just have to get on with. It takes two people to make an argument.
“He’s just got to switch off, sit down – and accept that it’s part of the game.
“It’s unusual to see that from Henderson.”
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