Jordan Henderson: What really impresses me about Liverpool FC starlet
The Liverpool FC captain talks up the potential of Wales international Ben Woodburn
Jordan Henderson admits he has been impressed with Ben Woodburn’s attitude despite the Liverpool starlet having to be patient for a chance.
The Wales international has a big reputation at Liverpool after progressing through the youth ranks at the Anfield outfit to reach the cusp of Jurgen Klopp’s first team.
Woodburn signed a new long-term contract with the Merseyside outfit last week as Liverpool secured the teenager’s future following his impressive performances for the Reds’ Under-21 team.
The 18-year-old achieved international acclaim after the forward scored a brilliant winner in Wales’ 1-0 victory over Austria in World Cup qualifying at Millennium Stadium earlier this year.
Klopp, though, has resisted the temptation to rush Woodburn into the Liverpool team with the teenager making one appearance in the League Cup this season.
Liverpool captain Henderson is impressed with Woodburn’s attitude working with Under-21s coach and club legend Steven Gerrard.
“I’d like to congratulate Ben Woodburn on signing a new contract with the club, having recently turned 18 years old,” Henderson told Liverpool’s website.
“I was reading Steven Gerrard’s comments on how Ben has performed for the U19s in the UEFA Youth League, played on the same day we play Champions League football.”
Henderson added: “What stood out from Steven’s comments is how Ben’s attitude is what has impressed him most; that Ben has embraced being part of the U19s and shown real leadership.
“We’ve all seen for Liverpool and Wales that Ben has the talent and temperament to perform on the biggest stages, but the fact he’s prepared to be patient and treat playing at the younger age levels with such enthusiasm and professionalism will serve him well.”
Woodburn became Liverpool’s third youngest-ever player when the forward made his debut as a substitute in a 2-0 victory over Sunderland in 2016.
The Welsh forward was the club’s youngest-ever goal-scorer when the teenager netted against Leeds United in the League Cup at the age of 17 years and 45 days.
