• Premier League

Henderson 'beginning to repay price tag'

Jordan Henderson believes he is finally living up to his £20 million price tag after being appointed Liverpool's vice-captain by manager Brendan Rodgers.

Henderson endured a difficult first two seasons following his 2011 move from Sunderland, with many eyebrows raised by the large transfer fee.

But after a more consistent campaign last year, followed by two appearances for England at the World Cup, Henderson says he is beginning to become the player who will one day replace Steven Gerrard in the Anfield armband.

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"I didn't have to think too hard about it - it was an amazing feeling," Henderson told the Daily Mirror. "It is a huge honour to be given the extra responsibility by the gaffer.

"I think it shows how much I have progressed. It is something I spoke about with the manager, who said when I wasn't playing that I could take time out, focus on videos and learn tactically as a player.

"He promised that he would improve me and I have got a lot to thank him for because I feel he has done that tactically. Definitely."

When Rodgers was first appointed as Kenny Dalglish's replacement, he told Henderson he needed to work on his game and dropped him from the first team for several games.

Henderson added: "That was a big thing when [Rodgers] came in. He said I needed to improve my tactical awareness, how it needed to be better in games.

"I think it has improved, but I try and improve every single day in training. I watch every game back to see what I can do better and the manager helps me with it.

"In big games, tactics come in to it a lot, with different formations, different tactics, and different counter-attacks. I have learnt a lot and I am continuing to do so."

And Henderson not only hopes to follow Gerrard as Liverpool captain, but one day emulate the man he called the "best leader in football" and lead out his country.

"I have learned from players all around me but Stevie has been a massive influence on my career. I look up to him as a person and a player," Henderson said.

"I have got no better man to learn from because he has not only been the best leader for Liverpool and England, but probably the best leader in football.

"I know how big the role is but it is one that I am looking forward to take on. I am going to enjoy it as best I can - and keep learning from Stevie."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd