EPL 2016/17: Jordan Henderson is in awe of Liverpool's 'world class' forwards
Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has heaped praises on the team’s front three of Philippe Coutinho, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino. The Merseyside team’s attacking trio has been in impeccable form this season and has helped the Reds reach the top of the Premier League table for the first time since May 2014.
The Liverpool captain labelled his team’s front line as “world class” and also acknowledged their immense work rate and defensive contribution.
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“I see them every day and, for me, they are world-class players,” Henderson said. “It’s a pleasure to be playing with them. It’s our job to ensure we offer protection for them when they are going forward and expressing themselves.”
“Their understanding of the game, not only going forward but also the work rate they all give for the team in terms of pressing and winning the ball back high up the pitch, they all help the team defensively. As a team, I feel as though we have a lot of quality and in the final third they’ve been brilliant over the past few weeks.”
Liverpool thrashed Watford 6-1 at home in the last round of fixtures in the Premier League and that performance has flashed warning signs to their rivals. The Merseysiders have scored 30 goals in the league this season, thanks to their front three as Philippe Coutinho, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino have 16 goals and 10 assists between them.
Comparisons with 2013/14 team
It is not surprising that comparisons have already been drawn to the Liverpool side of 2013/14 season who narrowly missed out on the Premier League title.
However, Henderson feels that it is necessary to concentrate on the current campaign.
“I don’t really like comparing this team to a couple of seasons ago,” he said. “I prefer to concentrate on this team and what we’re good at and what we’re doing. That’s the most important thing. The team of 2013-14 is in the past.”
Henderson himself is having a fine season in the new number 6 role assigned to him by manager Jurgen Klopp. Henderson’s teammate Joel Matip lauded his work rate by saying, “He always has the ball and sometimes I think he is everywhere!”
Many believe Liverpool are one of the favourites to win the title come May. They also have the advantage of having no European football which gives them a week’s time to prepare for each league game.
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The Reds have already beaten Chelsea and Arsenal away from home and secured a point at White Hart Lane. Liverpool have a winnable run of fixtures till Christmas, which if they take advantage of, will help them cement their position at the summit of the Premier League.
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