Damien Comolli has revealed he consulted Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard before making a move for Jordan Henderson.
The director of football has also disclosed French striker David Ngog – who not part of the transfer, despite speculation – is set to hold talks with Sunderland.
Comolli believes 20-year-old Henderson not only has the physical attributes but also the attitude to succeed - qualities Gerrard saw when the pair were on international duty together last year.
Henderson’s arrival at Anfield could spark more transfer activity says Comolli who is delighted to have secured his services.
“I spoke to Stevie about Jordan before we signed him,” said Comolli.
“Stevie was very positive because obviously they have been together in the England camp.
“I know Jordan really appreciated the fact he was able to play next to Stevie with England. He will learn from players like Jamie Carragher or Stevie or Dirk Kuyt. I think he looked into the history of the club as well.
“I’m very pleased because he was one of the targets we had and when you get your first target it’s always a good sign because you think the others will come through as well.
“He has got all the skills technically that we needed. He’s good with the ball, he’s creative, he’s got good passing, he’s physically very good.
“That’s everything we wanted in a midfielder and he’s versatile as well.
“For Kenny he will be the player we wanted.
“He’s very passionate about football, very committed, a top professional. He’s the type of player who’ll stay behind after training and do extra work.
“When you talk to him it’s not about money or anything related to off the pitch.
“Everything is on the pitch: where am I going to play, have I got a chance to play, where can I develop most as a player.
“Kenny and I were very impressed with that and his commitment and passion for the game.
Comolli added: “Sunderland have had a strong interest in David, so we’ve agreed to let David speak to Sunderland about his future to see if he’s interested in going there.
“They’ve expressed a strong interest, so we’ll see what’s next for him.”
Although there will be strong competition for first team places in the Liverpool midfield next season, Comolli says Henderson will not be held back.
“He is definitely a player for now,” he said.
“Obviously it’s up to Kenny to decide but we see him as a player for now.
“In all the talks Kenny had with him he said. ‘If you come you will be very, very, very much a part of my plans’.
“We know we are building for the future.
“We think he’s going to be a top player and that’s all that matters.”
No comments:
Post a Comment