Phillips amazed by ‘brilliant’ Henderson resurgence after ‘problems’ at Liverpool
Kevin Phillips has insisted the “technically brilliant” Jordan Henderson could “play anywhere” for Liverpool.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the “top-class” 31-year-old has “stepped up to the plate” after his injury problems
Henderson netted a fantastic opener and turned provider for Liverpool’s second goal in Wednesday’s (1 December) 4-1 win over Everton.
Speaking during Amazon Prime Video‘s coverage of the derby (1 December), former Toffees midfielder Leon Osman branded the Liverpool captain a “manager’s dream”.
Henderson, who used to be heavily criticised by even Liverpool fans for many years, has struggled with injury problems in recent seasons and was ruled out for 15 Liverpool games last term after undergoing groin surgery.
However, Phillips insisted it was no surprise to see the midfielder turn in a world-class performance in the rampant win.
“You don’t keep top-class players down,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“They might lose a bit of form or pick up injuries and Jordan has had his fair share of fitness problems, but when they have to step up to the plate – top players do it.
“It’s no surprise to see Henderson play as well as he did against Everton.
“He can play anywhere. He’s deceptively quick and technically brilliant. Class rises to the top and that’s what he did on Wednesday.”
The England star has made 411 Reds appearances since joining the club from Sunderland in 2011.
Henderson has netted three and registered four assists in 19 Liverpool appearances this season.
The midfielder is contracted until 2025 at Anfield.
In other news, an expert has claimed Liverpool cannot afford to sign Raphinha after his Leeds price tag is revealed by Fabrizio Romano.