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Jordan Henderson 'will thrive' as captain, says Brendan Rodgers

Image: Former Sunderland midfielder has succeeded Steven Gerrard as Liverpool captain

Brendan Rodgers has backed Jordan Henderson to have an “outstanding year” as Liverpool captain.

Henderson has been handed the captain’s armband and has also inherited a key midfield role following Steven Gerrard’s departure for LA Galaxy.

However, Rodgers believes the England international will thrive with the additional responsibility of leading the Reds and will prove to be a worthy successor to Anfield legend Gerrard.

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Gerrard scored his first goal for LA Galaxy in the 5-2 win over San Jose on Saturday

“When I was aware that Stevie was going I wanted to look at somebody who would be a great ambassador for Liverpool on and off the pitch," Rodgers said on LFCTV.

"You have a huge responsibility on a worldwide basis.

"Jordan was one I thought about and once I saw him grow and develop as vice-captain, I felt sure he could be a captain.

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Kolo Toure feels Henderson will be a great Liverpool captain

"I told him to do it his way and have his own ideas and I think he'll have an outstanding year and really blossom with the captaincy."

Currently on tour in Australia, where they beat Adelaide United 2-0 on Monday, Liverpool begin their Premier League campaign at Stoke City on August 9.

They then face Arsenal, Manchester United, neighbours Everton, Chelsea and Manchester City in their next five away games.