Jordan Henderson fits the mold for Liverpool’s new way of working, according to the man who has done more to shape the fortunes of both player and club than perhaps anyone else in recent years.
Rodgers spoke to the media Thursday shorltly after Henderson signed a long-term contract with Liverpool. Rodgers said Henderson’s trajectory is a perfect example of Liverpool’s operating philosophy, according to LiverpoolFC.com.
“I’ve always said that the likes of Jordan and Raheem (Sterling) are very important players for us,” Rodgers said at his press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League game against West Brom at the Hawthorns. “Behind the scenes, the club is working very hard to ensure that we sign these types of players.
“Because if the model is to develop young players, once they have improved and become better, it is very important that you then nail them to the club and make sure that they’re going to be here for the best part of their career.
“That was the case with Jordan. He came in, and the club paid big money for him at the time because he had big potential, and that potential has developed. He’ll go into the next phase of that, being more responsible and improving his game.”
Henderson has realized his star potential since Liverpool signed him from Sunderland in June 2011 for £20 million ($30 million). Henderson worked through his early struggles to become a key component in Liverpool’s midfield and the club’s vice-captain.
Henderson is enjoying his best season to date, and Liverpool expects this to be one of many fine campaigns he delivers in the prime years of his career.
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Henderson has reaped the rewards for his development at Anfield with a new deal. Henderson’s teammates now have to opportunity to see the path he has taken and plot a similar route for themselves. Here’s one more reason why Henderson is the odds-on favorite to succeed Steven Gerrard as club captain next season.
Henderson signs new contract with Liverpool >>
Thumbnail photo via LiverpoolFC.com
