Jordan Henderson: Proving Sir Alex Ferguson wrong has made me stronger

Henderson in action for Liverpool

Liverpool’s much-improved midfielder Jordan Henderson believes proving his doubters wrong, which included Sir Alex Ferguson, has made him a stronger person and a better footballer.

The former Sunderland man joined Liverpool in 2011 and he suffered a torrid time with constant criticism aimed at him. However, fast-forward three years and Henderson has become a pivotal cog in the Liverpool midfield and helped his side come close to winning the Premier League this season.

Henderson’s form was rewarded with a call-up to the England squad this summer and Henderson could start the first game against Italy.

Henderson was criticised by former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in the Scotsman’s autobiography, who questioned his gait and running style.

However, Henderson insists it has made him stronger and in-turn, a better footballer.

Henderson told reporters: “In football you are going to have times where you have got to be strong, and you have got to keep believing in your own ability. That is just part and parcel of the game.

“All I do is just try to get on with it and work hard. I always believed I was a good enough player to be playing for England and Liverpool as well.

“Hopefully I can keep progressing as a player and getting better. There were a few people who did help me – the big players at Liverpool when you’re around them help you a lot.

“But at the same time you have to deal with stuff like that on your own and try and get through it on your own. No one else can change it – except yourself, to be honest.”

Henderson on Ferguson’s comments: “I think everybody blew it up to be more than it was.

“But looking back I took it as a bit of a compliment because he said he was watching us and thinking about buying us so I must have been doing something right.”