“I am without words, captain”
Everyone knows Jordan Henderson is a great leader. Even if you’re one of those people who still doesn’t rate him as a footballer despite winning a Champions League and a Premier League in the space of two seasons, it’s impossible to doubt his leadership skills.
And his farewell letter to Dejan Lovren is just the latest example of Henderson going above and beyond in his role as captain of Liverpool.
Lovren left the club after six years this summer, joining Zenit St Petersburg, and while he had fallen out of favour at Anfield, he was evidently very popular among his teammates.
Henderson sent the Croatian defender a letter, accompanied by a mini Premier League trophy, as a parting gift, and Lovren has thanked his former captain on Instagram, saying he was made speechless by the gesture.
The letter reads: “Dej, It’s impossible to think of Liverpool without you being with us and to be honest it hasn’t really sunk in that you won’t be coming back.
“You have been such a massive figure in our team and one of the biggest influences in helping drive us to the point we are at now: winners and champions.
“I hope you realise that in the game you are rightly considered one of the best in the world at what you do. For us and Croatia you instilled a mentality within the dressing room of always keep fighting.
“Even in times when it was tough for you, you were still there for everyone else. I will never forget the support you gave me and difference you made to me in helping to lead the team.”
https://twitter.com/AnfieldWatch/status/1303681001131061250
“You were always a captain yourself, without ever needing an armband. We all look up to you.
“Off the pitch, you are one of the biggest characters I’ve ever shared a dressing room with. Every player could connect with you, it’s an unbelievable human quality.
“I miss you already, even though I keep expecting you to bowl back into Melwood and be in the middle of banter and discussions.
“I hope you realise how much we all appreciate what you gave for this club and us as a team.
“I can’t thank you enough and I am always available if you or your family need anything.”
Henderson finished the letter by saying: “Good luck for future, but know you still have your brothers in Liverpool if you need us.”
Lovren replied by saying: “I am without words, captain. Thank you once again. Forever,” followed by a heart emoji and a flexed bicep.
