Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was named the Soccer Writers’ Affiliation participant of the 12 months on Friday for his position in main the Reds to their first league title in 30 years. The 30-year-old beat Manchester Metropolis’s Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester United ahead Marcus Rashford and teammates Virgil Van Dijk and Sadio Mane to the prize. In addition to making his presence felt in 30 Premier League video games this season as Liverpool have surged to the title with an 18-point lead on the prime of the desk, Henderson led by instance off the pitch throughout soccer’s three-month coronavirus shutdown.
He spearheaded the “Gamers Collectively” initiative through the lockdown which noticed gamers crew as much as elevate cash for Britain’s Nationwide Well being Service.
“I settle for it on behalf of this entire squad, as a result of with out them I am not able to be receiving this honour. These lads have made me a greater participant, a greater chief and a greater particular person,” mentioned Henderson.
“If something I hope those that voted for me did so partly to recognise your complete crew’s contribution.”
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp paid tribute to his skipper, who he described as the right mix between having expertise and an amazing angle.
“One of many massive questions in soccer is, ‘What makes a correct participant?’ or, ‘What’s extra vital: is it expertise or is it angle?’. I feel the straightforward reply is that with out expertise you’re nothing, with out angle you’ll keep a expertise endlessly,” Klopp mentioned in a video message to Henderson.
“So you’re the good instance that the combination makes the distinction.”
“All people noticed what an amazing participant you’re, everyone noticed what an amazing character you’re, what an amazing character you’re. I do know the human being behind the participant – you’ll deserve an award for that as nicely.
“What a 12 months you had, what a profession to date you had and the very best information: there’s nonetheless so much to return.”
Metropolis boss Pep Guardiola mentioned De Bruyne’s excellent season spoke for itself with the Belgian only one wanting Thierry Henry’s report of 20 assists in a Premier League season.
“I feel he speaks for himself with what he offers us to our crew and the Premier League. It’s not essential to say what a incredible participant he’s,” mentioned Guardiola.
“On the similar time congratulations to the captain of Liverpool for the award. He’s a extremely good participant.”
Promoted
In addition to the highest 5, 10 different gamers obtained votes from FWA members.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Raheem Sterling, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Sergio Aguero, Adama Traore, Danny Ings, Jack Grealish, James Maddison and Jonny Evans have been all nominated.
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