Jordan Henderson: Our togetherness is a big strength
Jordan Henderson believes the spirit of togetherness that has been fostered within the current Liverpool squad will stand them in good stead to achieve success in the seasons to come.
The Reds will clinch a top-four finish on the Premier League’s final day this afternoon if they defeat Middlesbrough at Anfield - and the skipper is confident their dressing room mentality provides the base for further achievements ahead.
He wrote in his column in ‘This is Anfield’: “A season that started so positively could end in the same way, as long as we have our attitude and approach right this afternoon.
“I think that applies to all of us: players who start, those in the squad, those not on the teamsheet, staff and of course the supporters. Everyone has a part to play today to make sure we create the right feeling around the squad and in the stadium.
“It was great to hear that last week after beating West Ham the only message coming out of the dressing room was: one more to go, job still to do. We know Boro have too much professionalism and pride to make it easy for us today. It’ll be the opposite. They’ll want to make sure it’s a battle, a fight.
“I’ve been here long enough to know the Liverpool supporters have an amazing ability to sense when they can be the difference. I heard Divock Origi describe them as the 12th man this week in an interview and he rightly pointed out that 12 vs 11 gives you a big advantage. It was a brilliant point from Divock and I’m sure it’ll be the case today.
“It’s hard to assess the season, until we know the final outcome. But one thing has stood out and that’s how together this group of players is and how much we trust in each other.
“Everyone - and I mean everyone - has contributed. From the oldest member to the youngest. There are players who aren’t often in front of the TV cameras but they’ve been massive for the dressing room. Alex Manninger is a perfect example of this: in the background but someone players can turn to for advice and help - and not just ‘keepers.
“The younger lads, like Trent, Ovie, Harry and Ben, have added a real sense of enthusiasm and freshness to us. There’s been players like Joe Gomez, whose opportunities have been limited but whose attitude day-to-day makes us as a group stronger and better. Danny Ings another one - plays a part in making Melwood what it is day-to-day.
“I think that’s going to be our biggest strength going forward, that as a group we believe in each other, support each other in tough times and celebrate each other’s achievements in good moments.”
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