Rodgers: Liverpool’s £18m Midfielder Was A “Great Buy”

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has hailed his predecessor, Kenny Dalglish, for the signing of Jordan Henderson while he was in charge.

Henderson has improved massively this season and continues to develop under Rodgers after moving to Liverpool from Sunderland for £16 million in 2011.

The 23-year-old arrived at the club alongside Stewart Downing, Andy Carroll and Charlie Adam but only Henderson still remains a Liverpool player.

He produced his best performance in a red shirt on Sunday as Liverpool won 5-0 at White Hart Lane and Rodgers says he deserves huge credit for his performances this season.

“It was a great buy by Kenny,” said Rodgers. “Jordan didn’t set the fee, for which he’s taken a lot of criticism, but he’s 23, he’s six foot one, he can run all day and technically he’s very strong.

“Tactically, his understanding of when to press and when to stay is getting better all the time.”

Rodgers added: “It’s all down to him. Nobody else. I saw him play for England against France a few years ago, and I felt sorry for him. He was a young boy, a big talent, but the game just passed him by, tactically. That wasn’t his fault.”

Although Rodgers had to develop lots of Henderson’s game he insists he never had any concerns over his ability.

“When I came into the club, he was a player I’d heard had a brilliant attitude,” said Rodgers. “That’s what I found.

“He’s a terrific player. He just needs confidence and constant work. He’s been outstanding for me. He’s a mentally tough boy, he’s very strong, and he’s great to work with. He will get better and better.”