‘He’s always on you’: West Ham star shares what he didn’t realise about Liverpool player

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Declan Rice has shared that he didn’t realise the ‘leadership qualities’ Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson brings to the table, as posted by England’s official YouTube account.

The West Ham United star could line up alongside Liverpool’s combative captain when England take on Belgium in the UEFA Nations League tonight.

Both players didn’t start England’s friendly win against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, which perhaps indicates that they will be starters against the number one ranked team in the world.

Nonetheless, ahead of that fixture, Rice was full of praise for his midfield partner and he lauded his qualities with and without the ball.

“I think if you look at Jordan and what he’s done in the game for his whole career, but especially the last couple of years then I think it’s important for someone like me to be playing next to him,” said Rice.

“To learn and to get better. The main thing I pick up from him is we already know his qualities on the ball but you don’t realise until you play next to him his leadership qualities and what he actually brings to the team.

“He’s non-stop. He’s always on you. In a good way and in a positive way. And that gives you the confidence to go onto the pitch and fight for the badge. Playing next to him, as I said his ability on the ball, to keep the ball with him and to be able to pass to him it’s really good. Top player!”

Henderson was a key figure behind Liverpool ending their 30-year wait for another English crown last season.

Many captains have tired in years gone by to drag the Merseyside giants over the line, but even some greats have struggled to do something which was beginning to border on the impossible.

But added with Jurgen Klopp and a host of Liverpool stars, Henderson wore the captain’s armband with pride and provided those Liverpool supporters with a season they will never forget.