Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has claimed that he was impressed with both Jordan Henderson and James Milner against Fulham.
The Reds were poor on opening day last weekend. But from the comments in his pre-match press conference via Liverpool FC on YouTube, it’s clear that the pair impressed Klopp against Fulham.
“Milly looks sharp when he comes on. Does he have to step up? He showed already a lot, so these kind of things,” said Klopp. “Hendo played good on 6 when we moved him inside, like he did last year, so there is still with the players we have competition for places and all these kind of things.”
The boss was discussing his current options in midfield following the clamour for a new signing in the position. Rightly or wrongly, it’s fair to say that he’s happy with his options.
Liverpool still looking to the old guard for help
For a portion of Liverpool fans, the prospect of a Milner/Henderson midfield is a particularly galling one.
Sure, it isn’t a glamourous pairing. The duo have a combined age of sixty-eight and, certainly in Milner’s case, perhaps their best days are behind them.
But if we’re talking about combined numbers, then it’s worth focusing on the good ones as well. Between them, they’ve played 742 times for Liverpool. Henderson has just hit his 450th at the club, and Milner will reach 300 this season.
Goals aren’t what either of the pair are known for. But together they’ve still hit 59 of them, registering 98 assists.
Milner has six trophies as a Liverpool player, and Henderson seven. All but one of the number 14’s trophies have been lifted as captain.
They’re loved and respected by Klopp, who has continuously lauded both the ability and leadership skills of both players.
It’s understandable that some fans wouldn’t want to be so heavily reliant on two decidedly veteran players. But they’ve worked their behinds off for this football club and will continue to do so until it’s no longer asked of them.
But some respect on their names.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
