Henderson Has Been A Big Loss

Henderson Has Been A Big Loss

It’s amazing to think that not so long ago Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson was deemed not good enough and a waste of money but the turnaround in the England international’s fortunes has been as amazing as the change of opinion of the Liverpool supporters.

Henderson’s value to Liverpool’s midfield has been highlighted by his absence in the last two games as Brendan Rodgers selected Lucas as his replacement. The Brazilian played in a right-sided midfield role in a 4-4-2 diamond formation, but he couldn’t offer what Henderson can.

That particular midfield role requires pace, energy, creativity and an end product which Henderson provides, but Lucas couldn’t and this made Liverpool’s midfield less effective, especially in Sunday’s loss to Chelsea.

While Henderson’s career has blossomed, Lucas’ has suffered a setback, both players have had tough starts to their Anfield careers before impressing the Kop but Lucas has had some bad injuries that have curtailed his progress and now he looks a yard slower than he used to and although he’s primarily used as a defensive midfielder, the Brazilian may struggle to feature in Liverpool’s midfield with Gerrard playing a deeper midfield role.

Henderson will miss the Crystal Palace game on Monday night but I’m sure he’ll return to start against Newcastle in the final game of the season in place of Lucas.