Henderson: We'll all be able to learn from Milner
Jordan Henderson is tipping new Liverpool vice-captain James Milner to prove to be a huge asset to the club this season, both on and off the field.
The 29-year-old was confirmed as the second in line for the skipper’s armband by Brendan Rodgers on Friday after an impressive pre-season campaign following his summer switch from Manchester City.
Milner arrived at Anfield boasting a wealth of experience that includes in excess of 50 England caps and a medal collection that houses two Barclays Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup.
Henderson feels such know-how will prove highly-advantageous for the Reds in 2015-16.
He told Liverpoolfc.com: “James has been a fantastic player for a number of years – I think we’ve all watched him for quite some time in the Premier League now and he’s been a great player.
“I think he can really add something to our team. He’s got great experience, is great technically and has great ability. I think this season, he’ll be a big player for us.
“I think it [experience] will only help, especially the younger lads. He’s won trophies and played at the highest level for club and country.
“He’s a great bonus and addition to the team – I’m sure all of us will learn from him.”
Henderson and Milner have linked up effectively in the centre of Liverpool’s midfield, with the latter helping himself to two goals as well as three assists each.
Overall contribution to results as opposed to personal milestones are the pair’s aim this term, according to the Reds’ skipper.
“We always talk about that, but I’m not really bothered as long as we’re winning games – that’s the main thing,” said Henderson.
“If we’re winning games, no-one will be saying ‘he should be scoring’. It’s a collective thing and the aim is to win as many games as we can.
“For me, it doesn’t really matter who is scoring or assisting, as long as you’re contributing to the game and giving everything for the team. That’s the most important thing.”
Milner was one of seven new signings made by Rodgers over the course of the off-season so far, while Divock Origi has also began life at Liverpool following his year-long Lille loan.
Henderson’s been impressed by what he’s witnessed to date.
“I think you’ve seen in the games how good they’ve been,” the 25-year-old stated.
“They’ve freshened us up a little bit and been working extremely hard in trying to get into, and improve, the team.
“I definitely think they’ll do that, so hopefully we can carry on the way we have been and start the season well.”
Liverpool played six matches across five countries during their pre-season programme, winning five and drawing one.
Henderson is pleased with the work the Reds have put in over the course of the summer and feels they’re in a good place to kick off the league campaign at Stoke City on Sunday.
He said: “It’s been a good pre-season for us all, we’ve worked hard and fitness-wise we’re feeling ready for the season.
“Going over to Australia and Asia, pre-season has been a good experience for all of the team. Training was good there in different conditions, which I think will help us and I think we’re ready now.”