Jordan Henderson Faces Liverpool Again
On Saturday evening, Jordan Henderson will go head-to-head with Liverpool for the first time since leaving Anfield in the summer of 2023, as the Premier League champions take on Brentford.
A Lasting Legacy
Although his departure was difficult, Henderson will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in the club’s history.
An Emotional Reunion
As he steps onto the pitch against the team he once captained to major triumphs over 12 years, it could be a challenging night for Henderson. He has the opportunity to increase the heat on Arne Slot’s squad by handing them a fourth consecutive loss, which would only be the fourth time in Premier League history they have achieved this.
Transformation of Role
At 35, it might have seemed unrealistic for Henderson to be an essential part of Brentford’s midfield, especially after his “tough” last two years. This journey included a stint at Al-Ettifaq under Steven Gerrard and a tumultuous 18 months at Ajax.
Reflecting on Difficult Times
Henderson admitted, “I have had some tough moments over the past couple of years.” He described leaving Liverpool as feeling like a breakup, revealing that watching Premier League games, especially Liverpool, became painful for him.
Career Reflections
He mentioned, “With time, things change. You move on.” Henderson cited being a part of Klopp’s ‘mentality monsters’ during one of Liverpool’s most successful periods, highlighting that he captained the team to numerous trophies including the Champions League in 2019 and the league title in 2020. When Klopp later informed him he would no longer be a guaranteed starter, it prompted Henderson to leave the club.
Looking Forward
Henderson has since joined Brentford, where he has quickly proven his value, contributing significantly with his passing and playmaking skills, showing that he is still capable of competing at high levels in the Premier League.
