Adam Lallana has spoken confidently about his new role; one that should benefit Jordan Henderson.
Lallana looks set to play as a deeper midfielder next season, going by his position in pre-season. It’s a role he hasn’t played in since arriving for £25m in 2014.
“I see a lot of the ball and I’m the type of player that wants to be on the ball; I feel I can get us moving, get us out of tight situations and bring a different aspect to Liverpool,” he said, per the Echo.
“As long as I can stay fit – and I’ve been working hard on my fitness – then I think I can bring quality to this Liverpool team.”
But for everything it does for Lallana, Henderson will also benefit from the new role. It should, really, change his career path.
We’re still in the high-point of Henderson’s career, of course. He’s a player who many had long written off and yet he’s now a European Cup-winning captain.
On an individual basis, too, he made strides last season. Jurgen Klopp deployed Henderson as the deepest midfielder since he became manager.
That changed last season, though, with the arrival of Fabinho. Henderson moved forwards to play an advanced role with a lot more freedom.
It quickly became apparent that it suited him perfectly and Lallana’s new position should allow him to continue there.
If Fabinho is resting, Lallana can step in. We know Gini Wijnaldum can play there, too, if needed, meaning Henderson isn’t forced to play there.
Fabinho will play the biggest games and rightfully so. If there’s an opportunity to rest him in a game Liverpool expect to control, Lallana should be a fine choice.
Henderson can then focus on moving forward in a role and position that he thrives on.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
