Jordan Henderson: 'Steven Gerrard's England retirement helps Liverpool'

By Paul Gorst, Reporter | 22 July 2014

Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson believes that his club and international teammate Steven Gerrard's retirement from England will benefit the Reds in the long run.

Jordan Henderson believes that Steven Gerrard's England retirement will only benefit Liverpool this season.

The Reds skipper officially ended his 14-year association with the Three Lions on Monday afternoon, and his Anfield teammate thinks that the rest afforded to his captain during the international breaks will be good news for the club.

"I think it's obviously disappointing for England fans and players because he's such a key player for the team," Henderson told Sky Sports News.

"He's such a great leader off the pitch and on, so he'll be a massive miss. But at the same time, it's a massive plus for Liverpool.

"It means during international weeks, he can maybe have a little break. Have a bit of a rest and he'll be fresh for the games and obviously we've got Champions League in midweek and other coming fast and furious really, so he'll be raring to go, and that can only be a good thing really."

Liverpool are currently in the United States as they continue their pre-season preparations with friendlies against AC Milan, Olympiacos and Manchester City.