Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has admitted he is a big fan of reported transfer target Jude Bellingham, with the duo playing together for England this week.
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Bellingham is expected to top the Reds’ transfer wish list next year, with a host of Europe’s top clubs ready to fight for his services.
Many supporters wanted the club to boost its midfield ranks in this year’s summer window, but after main target Aurelien Tchouameni opted to join Real Madrid, the club were reluctant to spend big on alternatives.
Arthur arrived on loan from Juventus on deadline day, but many believe the Reds are preparing to move to Bellingham at the end of this season.
And speaking after teaming up with the 19-year-old on international duty over the last two weeks, Henderson has explained why he rates Bellingham so highly, stating that the youngster will have a big role to play in the World Cup.
“I like Jude, I think he’s an amazing player,” Henderson said while speaking at a McDonald’s fun football event, as quoted by the Mirror.
“He is a fantastic professional and his mindset is really key to his development.
“I almost don’t want to make him too big because he’s still a young boy!
“There will be a lot of pressure on him at a young age, but of course he is a top-class player, and I am sure he will have a big role to play in Qatar.”
Henderson replaced Bellingham towards the end of the Three Lions’ 3-3 draw with Germany, with the Dortmund star receiving the Man of the Match award.
It was the first appearance for the Liverpool captain since sustaining a hamstring injury in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Newcastle at the end of August.
He is expected to be available for selection when the Reds take on Brighton this weekend, the first of 13 games in six weeks before the World Cup mid-season break.
“It was nice to be back after a few weeks,” Henderson continued.
“I had a good week of training and then it was great to come in and get some minutes against Germany.
“I will get more training this week and then I will be ready for the weekend.
“There are so many games to play before the World Cup, so we are going to need everyone to fight and stay fit for as long as possible as we try to get through this period. We have to try to get back to the results and the performances that we are capable of.”
Saturday’s reunion with Brighton offers Henderson the opportunity to reunite with close friend and former Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana.
The pair are still in regular contact, and Henderson hopes the 34-year-old gets another good reception from the Anfield crowd.
“I talk to Adam a lot, and yes, he is looking forward to returning to Anfield and I am sure he will have a fantastic reception as always, as he has before,” he added.
“I’m sure he’ll be ready for the game, but for me it’s a business case as soon as he starts and hopefully we can show that.”
