Liverpool FC skipper Jordan Henderson has revealed how criticism pointed towards him early on in his career helped shape him to be the player he is now. The 30-year old Henderson completed nine years of playing for the Reds earlier this year.
The Reds skipper is one of the most important members of Jurgen Klopp’s side due to his playing abilities as well as leadership traits. However, in his initial days at the Merseyside club, the midfielder was often criticized for his performances on the pitch.
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Signed from Sunderland back in 2011 for a £20 million fee, Henderson was tipped to become an influential player for the Reds. However, his style of play attracted constant disapproval from the Liverpool FC supporters.
Moreover, Henderson’s stock at the club had fallen so far that then Liverpool FC manager Brendan Rodgers was considering selling him to Fulham. But the midfielder had refused to seal a move to Craven Cottage and insisted on playing for the Reds.
And now Henderson has revealed that the criticism thrown at him during his early days at Anfield “did affect him,” however, made him the player he is today. The midfielder added that it took him a while to get used to things after signing for the Reds.
Henderson stated that when joining a club of Liverpool FC’s stature, a player is subject to very high expectations. Moreover, with him being only 21 at the time of his move, the high price-tag accompanying his signing did not do him any favours with the Liverpool FC supporters.
However, Henderson voiced his pleasure of being able to prove his critics wrong by working harder in training sessions. This helped the former Sunderland man to perform better on the pitch for the Reds.
The English international credited keeping his head down and tirelessly working for his rise at the Merseyside club. Henderson has now developed into one of the best midfielders playing in the Premier League. The player has perhaps been the Reds’ most influential performer in the current campaign with his contributions on the pitch.
Moreover, the 30-year old’s leadership qualities have been hailed by former players and managers, including Henderson’s predecessor as Liverpool FC’s captain, Steven Gerrard. The Reds skipper has led his side to Premier League and Champions League glory in successive seasons.
