Liverpool captain Jordan
Henderson signed a new long-term contract with the Premier League leaders on
Monday.
Henderson has emerged as a
key figure under Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, and the new deal is a reward for the England
midfielder’s fine form.
The 28-year-old has made 283 appearances for Liverpool,
scoring 24 goals, since arriving from Sunderland
in 2011.
He took over the Liverpool
captaincy from Steven Gerrard in 2015, leading the team to last season’s
Champions League final.
With the deal reported to be for five years, Klopp hailed Henderson’s contribution
under his management.
“It is fantastic news, but should not be a surprise to
anyone – he is perfect for us, and we for him, I think,” Klopp said.
“Jordan
embodies entirely what it means to be a Liverpool
player in this modern era of football.
“You can tell through his actions on and off the pitch, he
treats representing our badge and our shirt as a privilege.
“He takes nothing for granted and strives to learn and be
better for his team at all times.
“He carries a lot on his shoulders that people on the
outside won’t see, but he embraces that responsibility and that leadership.
“He is our ‘General’, and I trust him completely.”
After being rested following England’s
run to the World Cup semi-finals, Henderson made
his first start of the season in Saturday’s 2-1 win at Leicester, which ensured
Liverpool’s best opening to a campaign since
1990-91.
“It doesn’t seem like too long ago when I signed my first
one – it feels like yesterday, really – but a lot has happened since then,” Henderson told Liverpool’s
website.
“I feel it’s been a progressive journey for me throughout my
time here, and one I’ve enjoyed so much.
What it means to be captain for the Reds... 🔴💫
🙌 @JHenderson🙌
The full interview: https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4 pic.twitter.com/V1ci8YHgvi
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 3, 2018
“There is no other place in the world I would rather play football. I want to be here for as long as I can be.
“I’m so privileged to have been a part of this club for so long, and hopefully even longer now.”
I couldn’t be happier to have dedicated my long term future to this great club. I’ve loved every minute of my time at Anfield so far and have already made memories to last a lifetime but I’m convinced the best is yet to come.I love this club and I can’t wait for the future. #YNWA pic.twitter.com/jcSpLRu1Nl
— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) September 3, 2018