England suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Croatia in the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup meaning their dream of clinching their first trophy since 1966 will have to wait for another 4 years.
The Three Lions took the lead in the first half through Kieran Tripper but then goals from Ivan Perisic and Mario Mandzukic ensured that the Vatreni progressed to the finals.
While every player in the England squad was worthy of praise after their fine performance during the tournament but midfielder Jordan Henderson demands special mention.
Henderson has been the subject of many criticisms before the tournament began and some even questioned Gareth Southgate’s decision to stand him ahead of Eric Dier.
But the 28-year-old Liverpool player has easily been one of the star performers for England during the World Cup and the semi-final was no different.
And former Liverpool captain, Steven Gerrard was quick to recognize Jordan Henderson’s contribution to the English national team.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5, the Rangers boss said: “I’ve been one of his defenders over the last couple of years when he’s had his critics about because I know the player and I know the person.
“I spoke to him last night after the game and I said to him: ‘Look. I know you’ll be hurting right now but you should come back into the country with your head held high.’
“His time will come. He’s getting so, so close to one of these trophies and a big success in his career, and it will be making of him and people will realise the player and the leader he is.
“He has absolutely emptied the tank for both England and Liverpool this year.
“He ran out of steam a little bit in extra-time, but he’s absolutely given everything for club and country and I think he’s had a fantastic season.
“People are starting to appreciate him now, whereas I’ve appreciated him all along.”
We have to agree with Steven Gerrard on the fact that Jordan Henderson has silenced a lot of his critics after his top class performance with Liverpool last season and now with England.
And sticking to what Gerrard said, if Jordan Henderson could have played in extra-time the outcome might have been different than what it is today.
Read: Former Premier League midfielder has no remorse for England after their semi-final exit from the World Cup.
Read: Rangers have found a replacement for Bruno Alves but getting him will burn a hole in their pockets.
Read: Here’s how Croatia mocked England after the Three Lions’ World Cup exit.
