Henderson: Everyone should thank BR
Jordan Henderson believes every player in the Liverpool squad owes a debt of gratitude to the man who has moulded their title challenge this season - Brendan Rodgers.
Henderson returned to the Reds' starting XI for their final flourish of the campaign against Newcastle United at Anfield on Sunday, having missed the previous three games through suspension.
Although Liverpool were unable to clinch the Barclays Premier League title on the final day, the home crowd stayed behind in full force to show their appreciation for a phenomenal season.
While the Reds transformed themselves from a team that finished seventh, 28 points off the top, to serious title contenders, Henderson's progression followed a similar trajectory.
The midfielder excelled throughout 2013-14, emerging as a key component at the heart of the side, the on-pitch personification of Rodgers' high-intensity footballing philosophy.
Henderson feels the manager's guidance has helped him progress beyond all recognition over the last 12 months - and that the same can be said for the rest of his teammates.
"I think I've improved from the start of the season until now," Henderson told Liverpoolfc.com from the Anfield tunnel after the Reds' 2-1 win over the Magpies.
"I feel as though I've become a better player in many areas. I've still got a long way to go, no doubt. But I feel as though I'm improving. I'm enjoying my football.
"The manager has helped me with a lot of things and hopefully I can keep working even harder to become better. If I do that, I'm sure I can keep going in the right direction and that's the same for the team.
"The manager has been key. He's been amazing for me personally and I'm sure that's the same for everybody else in the team as well.
"The things he can do on and off the pitch for the players is fantastic and he has a great relationship with us. That's just the type of person he is. He's a great manager and I'm sure everybody will want to thank him for this season."
The final day of the campaign saw Manchester City clinch the league title by two points after downing West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium to confirm a second-place finish for Liverpool.
However, the No.14 was insistent upon the final whistle that the players could be proud of their achievements as they secured the club's highest finish in the league for five years.
"I think everyone can hold their heads up very high and be proud of what we have done," said Henderson.
"Obviously there will be a little bit of disappointment because we felt we still had a chance of winning the title. But we've got to be very happy with what we have achieved this season."