Image Credits: Imago Images
Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was a surprise inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad this summer.
The midfielder has played just 12 minutes at the tournament and is not expected to feature again after suffering a broken arm while celebrating England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico.
England boss Thomas Tuchel admitted Henderson’s selection was based as much on his leadership and influence off the pitch as his performances on it, with the veteran remaining a key figure in the camp.
Henderson has been tipped to move into coaching after his playing career, and England assistant Anthony Barry believes he has all the qualities to succeed.
Barry even suggested the former Liverpool star could one day take on a role similar to his within the national team setup.
Barry told talkSPORT: “I see everything in Jordan. I’m so in awe of him as a player, a person and also maybe a future coach. It’s maybe more of a question for Jordan.
“He has it all, he’s the full package, he’s a serial winner as a player and an elite person off the pitch. And when it comes to football IQ, he can really hold court with anyone and the best of them.
“So the future is bright for Jordan, I’m sure. Maybe one day he takes my seat, kicks me off, and Thomas Tuchel replaces me. But if I was to be replaced by Jordan, it would be a fantastic pick.”
Henderson will not be able to help England on the pitch as they continue their World Cup knockout campaign with Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway.
However, the 36-year-old is still expected to play an influential role behind the scenes, providing leadership and experience in the dressing room and on the touchline as the Three Lions bid to reach the semi-finals.
Anthony Barry added: “For me it was one of the most special moments of the tournament, mixed emotions, to see Jordan fall.
“I knew straight away that he’d hurt himself. I still had the emotion of winning the game, but I knew he was hurt and then it was back on the rollercoaster of emotions.
“To see our players, the way they reacted, the way they protected Jordan and switched from celebration into protection mode around him…to see 26 players and staff, it was an incredible moment. It says everything about Jordan. All of the players wanted to be with him, to protect him and support him.”
Jordan Henderson captained Liverpool to some of the most successful years in the club’s history, leading the Reds to Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, League Cup and Community Shield triumphs during his time at Anfield.