Boss hails 'stature' of returning Hendo
The opportunity to call on the services of Jordan Henderson on the day that Liverpool complete their unforgettable 2013-14 season will be one that Brendan Rodgers welcomes with a smile.
A stoppage-time straight red card received in the closing moments of his team's dramatic 3-2 victory over Manchester City midway through April ruled the energetic 23-year-old out of three matches.
In the process, Henderson was denied the chance to maintain a record which showed that the No.14 had previously missed just 22 minutes of the Reds' surge to the Barclays Premier League summit.
His presence did not disappear entirely; the manager was keen to retain the midfielder's personality and drive around the dressing room, so he travelled with his teammates throughout his suspension.
The England international can contribute in tangible football terms again on Sunday, though, as Liverpool finish off with a home tie against Newcastle United - and the manager hailed his return.
"Jordan is a player who has great stature and his game has improved 10-fold," Rodgers explained to the Liverpool Echo ahead of the Magpies' visit. "He's been a really inspirational player for us.
"Defensively, he's very good for us because he recovers the ball quickly and presses really well. He has that energy and stature. It's great to have that quality back for our final game."