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Ireland lock Iain Henderson 'has potential to be world beater'

Iain Henderson (l) of Ireland does battle with Edoardo Gori of Italy during the World Cup
Image: Iain Henderson (left) of Ireland does battle with Edoardo Gori of Italy

Iain Henderson has the ability to become one of the best players in world rugby, says former Ireland fly-half David Humphreys.

The 23-year-old Henderson, who plays at lock, is currently part of the Ireland squad that has reached the quarter-finals of the on-going World Cup.

Humphreys used to be Henderson's coach at Ulster and he said: "I still remember the first day he turned up at Ulster training, the first day I met him.

"You certainly wouldn't have identified him then at that point as someone who had that ability.

"We knew the physical attributes he had, but there's so much more to becoming a professional rugby player.

"He's one of those players who has come into the professional environment and has thrived.

He's one of those players who has come into the professional environment and has thrived.
Humphreys on Henderson

"He's met every challenge, trains hard, prepares well and does understand how good he can be?

"I'm delighted to see the way he has progressed, his impact for Ireland over the last two weeks has made him one of the first names on the team-sheet now.

"He has the potential to be one of the stand-out performers at this World Cup, particularly if Ireland are successful.

"Henderson has the potential to be one of the best players in the world.

"He's got to be a leader for Ulster and Ireland, but it's that ability to play at the very top level, whether he's away with Ulster at Zebre, or for the British and Irish Lions away in New Zealand.

"Once he understands that I have no doubt that he will be a star for Ireland for many years to come."

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