JURGEN KLOPP hailed Jordan Henderson as the ‘superstar’ behind Liverpool’s success upon his recognition at Sports Personality of the Year.
The Reds captain finished second in the voting for the 2020 award, coming in behind Formula One hero Lewis Hamilton.
Jordan Henderson came second in BBC’s SPOTY ceremonyCredit: PA:Press Association
Jurgen Klopp picked up his own award and hailed Henderson’s contributionCredit: PA:Press Association
But there was even more silverware for Liverpool as the Premier League winners scooped the Team of the Year gong, with Klopp named Coach of the Year.
At the star-studded ceremony, the German read out a letter to Henderson, 30, underlining his value to the team.
He told the BBC event: “Hello friend, hello our captain.
“When we won the Premier League title last season, you wrote a personal letter to every player in the squad and myself.
“Well, now it’s my turn. I write this letter to you.
“This Liverpool team they say we don’t have one superstar. For us the team is the star. This is true. But you are a superstar at making us that team.
You’re a world-class athlete and football player but you are an even better human being.
Jurgen Klopp
“Jordan, people too often ignore your quality. But not me and not your team-mates.
“After a tough journey with many obstacles everyone can see it – personality, character and ability. The complete package.
“You led our club to ending a 30-year wait. You did it with humility and grace. You’re a world-class athlete and football player but you are an even better human being.
“Thank you for everything, my friend, and here’s to a great 2021. With love, Jurgen.”
Liverpool ended their 30-year wait for a league title last season and are up and running in their defence of the crown.
Henderson scored in Saturday’s 7-0 thumping of Crystal Palace, sending his side four points clear atop the table.
Klopp and Henderson have formed a formidable partnership at AnfieldCredit: EPA
Klopp, 53, hailed his stars upon the Team of the Year announcement and told fans to expect a big party when allowed to do so.
He stated: “I think my team deserves it because they did an incredible job.
“It’s a mix of talent, character, desire and the power of the club.
“That all comes together and we became champions and it was a great, great moment.
“We do what we can to bridge the time until fans are back again, we want to organise a big big party when we are allowed.
“Maybe we can win something again before then and have two things to celebrate.
“But the one thing we won last year, we will celebrate for sure and we can’t wait to see you again.
“Getting this prize, by the way, in Manchester… Makes it even sweeter.”
Jurgen Klopp accepts SPOTY award for both Team of the Year and Coach of the Year
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
