PREMIER - Liverpool, Henderson on Luis Suarez: "Facing him is a big challenge"

Asked about Atletico Madrid hitman and former Liverpool powerhouse Luis Suarez, ahead of CL upcoming match involving Reds and Colchoneros, English international midfielder Jordan Henderson stated:

"Facing Suarez is challenging indeed. I think we all know he’s been a top player for a long time, produced so many good moments at Liverpool. I learned a lot from him while he was here, I’m quite close to him, I speak to him now and again. He’s a world-class player and he causes a lot of problems for defences, he’s always in and around the goal and if he gets a chance, I’m sure he’ll take it. So we’ve got to be on our guard with him – not only him, they’ve got world-class players all over – but certainly Luis is a top striker and will cause any team problems.

We don't speak that often, to be honest, but now and again just to see how he is doing, how his family is doing and things like that. But not all the time. I think he helped us a lot when he was at Liverpool – mentality side of it, how he was in training, he always wanted to win. The things he played through in terms of pain barriers and things like that, he just wanted to get out, play football and try to do his best for the team. Like I said, I took a lot from him when he was here, I think he helped me massively, made me grow in confidence as a player. And I had a good relationship off the pitch but also on the pitch as well.

When Luis was here he was phenomenal for a number of years, he was outstanding. And I think the fans know that, I think the fans will appreciate that and what he did at this football club. I don’t think Luis will be too bothered but of course after the game it would be nice; maybe not during the game but after the game it would be nice for him to get a nice reception from the crowd".