Gareth Southgate has hailed 'underappreciated' midfielder Jordan Henderson as he prepares to receive his 50th England cap against Montenegro.
The 28-year-old is expected to bring up his half century when the Three Lions resume their European Championship qualifying campaign in Podgorica this evening.
The most-capped member of the current squad, only Raheem Sterling (48) and Kyle Walker (45) are close to matching the Liverpool man's imminent milestone.
But Southgate does not believe Henderson receives the recognition he deserves from outside the England camp.
“Firstly, only 59 players have achieved it, so it’s a relatively small club and a great honour,” he said.
“That requires huge commitment to playing for England, first and foremost. And then, on a personal level, Jordan’s qualities as a player – which I think have been underappreciated at times – he’s such an important player for us and has been for the last couple of managers.
“Everybody values the fact that he has a winning mentality. Good players make other players play well.
“It’s not just about your own performance, but the impact and effect you have on others. When you’re a leader like he is, that is among his top qualities.”
As for Henderson himself, he is more focused on the challenge of securing an important three points on the continent rather than personal landmarks for now.
“Hopefully, if I play, then I’ll obviously be very proud to have played for my country that many times,” he said.
“But I won’t think about it too much. Maybe I will when I finish my career and can look back.
“But at the moment I want to concentrate on doing my best for the team, giving everything for my country.
“When I finish my career, I’ll look back and decide whether I’m satisfied or not.”
