Henderson happy, hails ‘outstanding’ debutant

Matt Stead

Jordan Henderson was happy to return for Liverpool after injury, while the captain praised full debutant Brad Smith.

Henderson made his first start for the Reds since August in the 0-0 Europa League draw with FC Sion on Thursday, playing over 70 minutes of the game after his return from a heel injury.

The captain was happy to return to the starting line-up, albeit in difficult conditions on a partially frozen pitch in Switzerland.

“It was nice to play 75 minutes,” he said. “It was a tough game in tough conditions but we’re top of the group and we move forward.

“[My fitness] was tested tonight on that pitch and I had no problem. Hopefully I’ve just got to keep managing it – it’s been fine so far.”

Henderson reserved praise for left-back Brad Smith, who made his full debut after coming on as a second-half substitute in the Capital One Cup against Southampton last week.

“It was Brad’s first start and I thought he was outstanding, brilliant going up and down the left flank.

“He was dangerous for us, getting good crosses in.”