In less than 10 days, the two most decorated clubs in the history of English football will go head to head at a new and noisy Anfield. Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United, fresh from a draw with Stoke City, will travel to Liverpool to face their nemesis in one of the games of the season. Jurgen Klopp’s side have looked tremendous recently, grinding results out even when not at their best and have shown that they have what it takes to land a genuine title challenge this season and this clash against United might go a long way of deciding their chances this season.
Club skipper Jordan Henderson has been one of the best players in the league this season, dropping into a defensive midfield position and helping his side keep the ball for long periods. He is in great form as he showed with his strike at Bridge which was named the goal of the month for September and a number of records that he holds this season (most passes completed, most touches made, to name a few) are just an indication of how well he has thrived in a deeper role under Klopp. However, with German international Emre Can back in action, Klopp now has a decision to make. Adam Lallana is reportedly out of the game against United which will give Klopp a chance to play both Can and Henderson but when Lallana is back, it will be hard for the manager to axe any of his first teamers.
This is why the Manchester United game might be a career changer for Jordan Henderson. With great performances even against the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Arsenal, the Liverpool skipper looks like he has stepped up his game a notch but the Manchester United midfield will provide him with a completely different challenge next weekend. The likes of Fellaini/Herrera, Ibrahimovic and Pogba will be physical on the night and the England international should make sure that he stays calm and does not let the atmosphere get to him at Anfield. He has shown that he can excel in that role against smaller opposition but he will be tested to the core against United and will have to come out with flying colours to keep his place in the side.
Initially, Henderson struggled to bring justice to band, but now he has picked up the momentum and it is very fair to say that he can solely succeed Steven Gerrard’s legacy.Playing in one of the most important roles in Klopp’s side, Henderson will have to be at his very best for every minute as a single mistake might lead to a goal for the visitors. He will also have to be at his best while going forward as the Liverpool fans will want all three points from this game. It is a game neither side wants to lose and if the skipper has an off day, he may well fall out of favour for a long time.
A game against the team like Manchester United has always been a nail-biting encounter. Every player especially Henderson knows the importance of the fixture and even though Liverpool have a home advantage to show for, United are not an easy side to beat.