4 reasons why Jordan Henderson can be the next Steven Gerrard

3. Versatility

Steven Gerrard has played in numerous positions ranging from a full back role to a wide midfielder. In the 1998-99 season, a young Steven Gerrard debuted at right back before manager Gerard Houllier shifted him to a central midfield position.

In the 2008-09 season, Gerrard played a majority of games in the second striker position, in behind Spanish striker Fernando Torres and scored a total of 24 goals that season.

One cannot help but notice the resemblance between Henderson and Gerrard here.

Henderson was employed at various positions – both at Sunderland and Liverpool – before he settled down as an energetic box to box midfielder.

Under Brendan Rodgers, Henderson has played at wingback, as a false winger and as a central midfielder. Henderson’s adaptability to change will be key for Liverpool in the future when Gerrard finally hands over mantle to him.

4. Nationality

Henderson and Gerrard during an International game

Steven Gerrard’s England career is far from what you would call successful. With a total of 114 caps, he captained the Three Lions to two unsuccessful major tournaments, the World Cup 2014 and the Euro Cup 2012. It is quite a shame that such a top class player, who has achieved so much at the club level, failed to win a trophy internationally.

Not many may know this, but Jordan Henderson has a vast experience in captaining England, having represented them at four different levels. He was the captain of the famous U-21 English side who maintained a 100% record in the 2013 Euro Qualifiers.

It is certain that Henderson is a part of Roy Hodgson’s plan for the future as England prepares of the 2016 Euros in France.

The memories of the disappointing World Cup and Euro Cup campaigns with the senior team will be vivid in Henderson’s mind and in the years to come this, experience will come handy for Henderson, when the need for a new English captain emerges.