Jordan Henderson has labeled injury-stricken midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain like a new singing upon his return to full fitness, speaking to The Liverpool Echo.
Liverpool captain Henderson stated, before his sides pre-season friendly against Borussia Dortmund, how Chamberlain played a pivotal role from the sidelines in helping the Merseysider’s record their sixth European title last season and the effect his return to fitness will have on the team ahead of the new campaign.
He played a big part for us behind the scenes last season even though he was injured, always positive and this season I hope he plays a massive part on the field and shows what he’s capable of.
He’s a fantastic person off the field and I’m sure he’s been through some painful times but he was always there to support us.
This pre-season is important for him to get back to fitness and he’s been flying so far to be fair, he gives us something different and is like a new signing for us, hopefully, he can keep staying injury-free and he deserves a break.
Chamberlain has had to be patient since seriously injuring his knee in a collision with Alexander Kolarov just over a year ago, and having missed the entirety of last season the Englishman looks prepared to play a starring role as Jurgen Klopp’s men hope to secure an inaugural Premier League title.
The 25-year-old will add further depth to Liverpool’s midfield and should he begin to pick up the same sort of form he was showing before his injury, Klopp will be vindicated in only having added a few new names to his ranks for next season.
Saturday’s game against Klopp’s former club Dortmund will provide another opportunity for Chamberlain to showcase his fitness before their Premier League opener against newly-promoted Norwich.
