10 facts about Henderson
Jordan Henderson today became Liverpool's first signing of the summer. Here are 10 things you need to know about our new boy...
Jordan Brian Henderson was born on June 17, 1990 in Sunderland. His dad owns a double glazing firm. Though the 20-year-old is now leaving his family, he'll be pleased to learn that the player liaison officer at Melwood grew up just a few streets away from him, so they'll have plenty to chat about.
According to Daily Telegraph stats, just two players completed more key passes than our new boy in 2010-11. Henderson's 78 was bettered only by Kevin Davies (86) and Florent Malouda (113).
He joined Sunderland aged seven and has operated as a striker, a right-winger and, more recently, a central midfielder. He was an integral part of the Black Cats U18 side which clinched back-to-back league titles.
Like Raheem Sterling, Henderson once appeared on Soccer AM's Skill School, displaying some unbelievable tricks - but not quite as unbelievable as rival Nathan Luscombe.
He was just 18-years-old when Roy Keane gave him his debut as a sub against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in November 2008. Chelsea won 5-0.
He was then sent to Coventry. Coventry City, that is - on loan. A metatarsal injury restricted him to just 13 appearances and one goal at the Ricoh Arena.
Regular suspensions for Lee Cattermole helped Henderson make 38 appearances in 2009-10, at the end of which he was voted Sunderland's Young Player of the Year. He retained the title last season.
Having already represented England at U19 and U21 level, Henderson was given a first senior cap by Fabio Capello in a friendly against France in November 2010. He lined up in midfield alongside new teammate Steven Gerrard. Despite being tipped as a future England regular, Henderson will feature for the U21s this summer as they seek European Championship glory. He has made a total of seven U21 appearances and scored two goals - including a belter against Romania.
Talking of Gerrard and Henderson - both midfielders claimed five Barclays Premier League assists last term.
The youngster scored five goals in 79 appearances for Sunderland - a tally he is far from happy with. "It has been a weakness in my game. Top midfielders score goals. It is a vital part of the modern game. l want to score goals and it is something I've not managed to do enough of." Henderson's four league goals were split equally between his left and right foot.
