Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has heaped praise on Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson.
Alonso, who won famously won the Champions League during his time on Merseyside with the Reds, believes Henderson is showing the leadership qualities reminiscent of his predecessor Steven Gerrard.
‘It’s not just the performances on the pitch, from the outside it looks like he (Henderson) has taken the leading role in the changing room,’ Alonso told Liverpool’s official website.
‘After Stevie (Gerrard), he got the captain’s armband and he wanted to try to continue what they did, and he’s managing it so far. With Klopp and Lucas as well, he’s doing well.’
Henderson, who was handed the captain’s armband for England in the absence of Wayne Rooney, will be desperate to lead Jurgen Klopp’s side to victory over fierce rivals Manchester United on Monday night.
The Liverpool skipper has found himself operating in a slightly more defensive role this season but, despite his defensive qualities, Alonso believes the 26-year-old Englishman is slowly morphing into the ‘complete’ player.
‘Jordan has so much energy, he plays well and he’s very complete. Not just as a holding midfielder, he’s able to get closer to the box. He’s becoming a very important player,’ the Bayern Munich midfielder added.
‘You need to adapt to your team and team-mates, and the opponent as well,’ Alonso said.
‘It’s different when you play a game against a team that tries to play or a team that wants to play long balls and you need to be more focused on the second ball or try to be more physical.
‘The more complete you are, the better you will adapt for the long season. Henderson does it very well.’
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