England captaincy a deserved honour for Henderson says Liverpool legend

Jordan Henderson’s promotion to the England captaincy is fully deserved – according to Liverpool legend John Aldridge.

With Wayne Rooney left on the bench for the Three Lions’ clash with Slovenia, Liverpool midfielder Henderson took over the armband.

The 26-year-old, who is club captain at Liverpool having taken over following the departure of Steven Gerrard last year, leads by example for club and country.

Interim England manager Gareth Southgate made clear how impressed he has been with Henderson over the weekend and Aldridge is delighted with the decision.

“What a great honour it is for Jordan Henderson to captain England against Slovenia,” he said.

“It’s another sign of his development and he deserves it.

“Henderson has had so many doubters over the years and I must admit I was one of them during his first season at Anfield, when he didn’t do himself justice.

(Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images)

“But over time he has grown as a player and as a leader. OK, it was only Malta on Saturday but Henderson was head and shoulders above anyone else on that pitch at Wembley.

“He’s such an honest player. He never hides. He’s always looking to get on the ball.

“After a tough year with injuries, he has proved he’s back to his best this season and that’s great news both for Liverpool and England.”