“Liverpool FC’s new captain is... Jordan Henderson!” When this
news broke in summer 2015, many Liverpool fans were happy and delighted,
including myself, as a relatively young talented man stepped forward to replace
the iconic Steven Gerrard as captain of Liverpool FC. Dazzling displays in
front of the Anfield faithful captured the hearts of many Liverpool fans. Fast forward a year on and many fans’ opinions
have changed dramatically of the Geordie born Centre Midfielder.
“How has this happened?” fans asked “Was it his injury?...The
change of management?” all possible reasons or perhaps excuses for Jordan
Henderson’s downturn in form and leadership. Many fans have divided opinions,
some say he can be a leader, others disagree, but the downfall in the whole team’s
performance has certainly not helped the England international’s popularity at
Liverpool. The main issue with Jordan
having the armband is when Liverpool are behind in a game, they look to their
captain for inspiration and, to be honest, all the major comebacks this season
have come without Henderson in the side, such as Arsenal and most significantly
Borrusia Dortmund. It is ironic how the man who delivered that cross directly
on to the head of Dejan Lovren was... the stand in Captain James Milner. Young
players like Coutinho, Can, Origi all look to their captain for the cutting
edge and Milner delivered it. Only once this season has Henderson looked that
figure, at Norwich, where he scored to make it 2-3 and started the comeback.
However,t this season he has hardly finished a match. Is that the quality of a
leader? I say no! Others may say, “He is protecting an injury” Gerrard would
not have come off, unless he could not walk.
Who should he be replaced by? If Jordan were to step down as captain there are a few candidates that fit the boat, as they say, they include;
·
James Milner – experienced, title winning warrior who
tries his best every game to win.
·
Lucas Leiva – Longest serving player at the club but
will he be with us any longer? We do not know, he loves the club and the city
with a warm heart.
·
Emre Can – Looks like a leader, maybe for the future
but has the willingness to drive on and carry the team with him.
In my honest opinion, of the three candidates here, James
Milner looks like the best for Liverpool for now, with Emre Can following in
the footsteps of the title winning midfielder. James has the quality to provide
the game winning cross or through ball, all be it, not as much as Gerrard, but
not far off. His willingness and energy to win the ball back, 7/10 every week,
added with the experience of winning trophies he looks like the man to lead the
Liverpool team next season.
