Jordan Henderson's status as a Liverpool icon is undisputed, having led the Reds to glory across all major competitions during his 12-year tenure at Anfield.
But the midfield maestro didn't quite get the opportunity for a proper farewell with the fans following his unexpected switch to Al-Ettifaq in the summer of 2023. Henderson's stint in the Saudi Pro League was brief, lasting just under six months before he made a comeback to European soccer with Ajax from January 2024.
Now, there's chatter about a potential return to the Premier League. Sunderland, the club where it all began for Henderson, alongside Nottingham Forest, are reportedly keen on the 35-year-old, who might be available on a free transfer from Ajax due to a clause in his contract.
Back in the England fold under manager Thomas Tuchel, Henderson would surely receive a hero's welcome if he were to grace Anfield again, this time wearing another Premier League team's colors.
Despite his legendary status, Henderson wasn't always the darling of match officials; renowned referee Dr. Felix Brych once light-heartedly branded him a "troublemaker."
The esteemed German official, who hung up his whistle at the season's end, reminisced over some memorable encounters with Henderson and his vice-captain James Milner on talkSPORT last year.
Henderson didn't last long in Saudi Arabia
Henderson didn't last long in Saudi Arabia (Image: Getty Images)
"I got along with all the players very well, but in every game there was always my troublemaker," Brych shared with a chuckle.
"Looking back on many games at Anfield with Liverpool, when I saw Jordan Henderson, I knew I had to keep an eye on him.
"(He would say), 'Come on, it's not a foul, you can do it in Germany, but in England we want to let the game flow.'
It was always this kind of trash talk, but I liked it, and I got used to it. It was fun and games.
"He was talking all throughout the game. Also, James Milner. Sometimes he was quiet, sometimes he was talking a lot, and like you do, you talk in a different way.
"In Germany, talking is much more aggressive. In England, you talk in a different way, I knew that before the game."
Brych also acknowledged how his rapport with Jurgen Klopp evolved over time: "I met Jurgen Klopp in Germany 20 years ago, but in England it was a different relationship with him.
"If you know someone better than the others, they think you might favor them.
"I cannot give any kind of bonus to anybody."