Alan McInally: Jordan Henderson has surpassed expectations

Former Aston Villa star Alan McInally believes Jordan Henderson has surpassed fans' expectations with his impressive form at Liverpool.

The midfielder, who took his goal tally for the season to five with the opening strike in Wednesday's 2-0 win over Burnley, has been tipped to take over as captain when Steven Gerrard leaves for the MLS this summer.

And former Villa and Scotland striker McInally says his progress has suprised many following his arrival from Sunderland in 2011 under then manager Kenny Dalglish.

Speaking on the Morning View on Sky Sports News HQ, he said: “I think a lot of people when he went there thought 'Good signing, he’s done really well'.

“But I don’t think anybody thought he could evolve into something like he has done. I think 'King Kenny' brought Jordan Henderson into Liverpool, he had that kind of foresight and seen it in him and he’s developed into a wonderful football player.”

And former Bayern Munich star McInally says Henderson's 20-yard strike against Burnley, coupled with his goal last weekend against champions Manchester City, reflects the time he has spent under Gerrard's influence.

“He’s been watching Gerard. That was what Steven does best and I think he has been sensational," he added. “He keeps his head over the ball and puts his foot right through it.”

That view was echoed by Arsenal player Rachel Yankey, who added: “Henderson is looking like he’s taking over from Steven Gerrard. He’s a captain in the making and is learning off Gerrard.”