Alex Ferguson criticised Jordan Henderson in his autobiography by saying, “Henderson’s gait will cause him problems later in his career because he runs from his knees with a straight back.”
Brendan Rodgers hit back to defend his player with, “Having worked with him for over a season, he is a young lad who is just trying to improve. He comes in every single day, does his best to try to become a top player. When Kenny Dalglish signed Jordan, I thought it was a great signing
“There was a reference to his running style and his gait but you go through all the medical tests when you sign for a club.
“They will have strengths and weaknesses when they arrive but they will improve. I’m sure somewhere along the line, if Sir Alex bumps into Jordan, he will apologise.”
Now who knows if this dig by Ferguson was the reason behind Jordan Henderson putting in a great performance for Liverpool on Saturday against West Brom. If it were not for Luis Suarez’ hattrick in that game, then Henderson could have easily walked away with the man of the match award.
Henderson was pushed further forward in the West Brom game as he took over the number 10 role from Victor Moses. Where Moses has been struggling all these games at the 10, Henderson came on a played like he has been playing in that position for a long time. Henderson linked up the midfield with the attackers very well and due to his great athleticism, which Ferguson questions funny enough, Henderson was also able to run up and down the field providing good options for the Reds in both attack and defense.
With Coutinho almost back from from injury, it will be interesting to see if he keeps Henderson in the number 10 position or recalls the Brazilian playmaker. Liverpool certainly need Henderson on the field in some capacity, maybe it is time for Rodgers to switch back to 4-3-3 when Coutinho is fit again and it that way he can opt for Lucas, Gerrard and Henderson in the midfield three with Suarez, Sturridge and Coutinho as the attacking trio.
If you look at the video below, courtesy of MostarLFC, of Henderson’s performance against West Brom, you will see how well Henderson really played and what a great asset he is to the side.
