Former Liverpool captain and current Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has revealed the advice he gave England star Jordan Henderson in the aftermath of the Three Lions heartbreaking 2-1 extra time defeat to Croatia in the World Cup semi-final last night.
Gerrard also launched a staunch defence of a player who, despite being praised during the World Cup, has had more than his fair share of critics over the years, with the Rangers manager adamant that he will win major honours in the future:
“I’ve been one of his defenders over the last couple of years when he’s had his critics about because I know the player and I know the person,” Gerrard said on BBC Radio 5 live.
“I spoke to him last night after the game and I said to him: ‘Look. I know you’ll be hurting right now but you should come back into the country with your head held high.’
“His time will come. He’s getting so, so close to one of these trophies and a big success in his career, and it will be making of him and people will realise the player and the leader he is.
“He has absolutely emptied the tank for both England and Liverpool this year.
“He ran out of steam a little bit in extra-time, but he’s absolutely given everything for club and country and I think he’s had a fantastic season.
“People are starting to appreciate him now, whereas I’ve appreciated him all along.”