When Liverpool paid £20million fee for a young English midfielder back in 2012, fingers were pointed on this transfer activity. Many claimed Liverpool overpaid for a youngster. Henderson was brought from Sunderland with high hopes. But failed to live up to his expectations at the start of his Liverpool career.
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Even though he was utilised at an unusual right winger position in the start, Jordan Henderson was heavily criticised. He was considered as another flop signing by Damien Comoli, Ex Managing Director of Liverpool.
The Change in manager at Liverpool brought more troubles for Henderson. Rodgers allowed to let him leave as a make-weight deal for Clint Dempsey. But it was Jordan himself who opted to stay and fight for his position at Anfield. And with the passage of time, it has been proved that he made a wise decision.
Of Brendan Rodgers' first 42 matches, Henderson started just 20 but of Liverpool's next 60 matches, he failed to start just 5.
Major Breakthrough in Henderson’s career came in 2013-14 season. He was a major part of Liverpool’s midfield in that season and proved his worth. He was more dangerous going in front and creating chances for his team mates. When Steven Gerrard got injured, Henderson stepped up and controlled Liverpool’s midfield on his own. His range of passing and ability to make key passes was exceptional.
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Jordan Henderson 2013-14 Stats.
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Goals Scored
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4
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Assists
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7
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Pass Completion
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84.91%
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Chances Created
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62
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Final 3rd pass completion
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81%
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Henderson created 34 chances from open play last season, which is Joint highest for LFC in 2013-14.
At the start of this season, Liverpool sold center-back Daniel Agger. Rodgers showed his faith in Jordan Henderson by making him as new Vice-Captain.
In their last match against West Bromwich Albion, Liverpool needed a win badly. After a good start to their Premier League campaign, Reds had suffered back to back defeats. So it was critical that they should get back on winning track before the international break.
And their midfield duo, Gerrard and Henderson made that task much easier for Liverpool. Henderson had an exceptional match.
Henderson against WBA: Goals 1, Assists 1, Key Passes 4, Tackles 3, Interceptions2, 88% pass accuracy.
Liverpool have scored 10 goals this season so far. And Henderson has been directly involved in 40% of these with 1 goal and 3 assists. Now Liverpool have offered a new contract to Jordan Henderson. And looking at his stats and hard-work, one cannot argue that this man surely deserves a pay rise.
Amir Bashir follow him on Twitter.
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