Declan Rice admits he didn’t realise how good Jordan Henderson was

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England’s Declan Rice admits he didn’t entirely understand how much Jordan Henderson brings to the game. He’s well aware now, however.

Declan Rice has talked up Jordan Henderson ahead of England’s game with Belgium. The West Ham United midfielder is clearly impressed.

Rice believes he can learn a lot from the Liverpool captain – especially on the leadership side.

“I think if you look at Jordan what he’s done in the game for his whole career really, but especially the last couple of years, I think it’s so important for someone like me to be playing next to him, to learn, to get better,” he told a press conference.

“I think the main thing I pick up from him is we already know his qualities on the ball, but you don’t realise until you’re playing next to him his leadership qualities and what he actually brings to the team.

“He’s non-stop, always on you in a good way, in a positive way and that gives you the confidence on the pitch to go out there and fight for the badge.”

What RTK has to say

It’s a side of the game we just don’t get to see – one reserved purely for the teammates. But this is why Henderson is the Liverpool captain.

He pushes the team on, keeps them going and maintains the winning mentality. But while he can’t see it properly in person, there are telling signs.

Henderson missed the 7-2 disaster against Aston Villa and Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Watford last season. No coincidence there.

While a recent video posted on the LFC Twitter account showcased how the £20m man motivates his teammates.

All in all, Henderson is a magnificent captain. He’s a fantastic player, too, but his leadership qualities are the standout benefit of having him in the team.