Trent Alexander-Arnold has lauded the technical abilities of Liverpool teammate Jordan Henderson.
Henderson is often pigeon-holed as a hard-working, meat and potatoes kind of footballer. But according to Trent, that does the Reds captain a big disservice.
“I think he is criminally underrated as a footballer. He is someone who can influence games. When people think of him, they think about shouting, running and the dirty side of the game. But on the ball, he is technically an outstanding footballer,” the 24-year-old said via the Evening Standard.
“He is a natural-born leader and you can tell it is not forced, it’s completely natural, he brings that intensity to the team. He demands it from people with his aura and shouting. The way he plays the game is very intense, and you need players like that.
“He is an all-round outstanding footballer and he deserves a lot more credit than he is given.”
Credit where it’s due for all-rounder Hendo
‘Outstanding’ might be a little bit of a stretch, but there’s no doubt that Henderson is underrated.
Perhaps that’s precisely because of his tendency to be the loudest on the pitch. How often do you see the best technicians in the game also being the biggest leaders? Very rarely indeed.
Henderson may not be anywhere close to being one of the best technicians, but he certainly knows how to play. His array of talents is remarkably complete for a midfielder, as much as many don’t want to admit it.
Does he have a range of passing? Yes. Can he tackle effectively? Certainly. Will he get about the pitch? Absolutely.
There are plenty of players who are better at every one of those attributes. But, significantly, there aren’t many who are at Henderson’s level on all three.
Disagree? Well, just send your complaints to Jurgen Klopp, or Trent Alexander-Arnold for that matter. Time and again some of the most talented players and coaches in the game have recognised Henderson’s qualities.
Perhaps the Liverpool captain will only be truly appreciated once he hangs up his boots. Until then, you’re unlikely to hear Hendo complaining. A little more credit wouldn’t go amiss, though.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
