'It was so important to depart with win'
Match-winner Jordan Henderson was determined that Liverpool would pause for an international break on the back of a crucial victory, and now wants similar examples of character in the weeks and months to come.
A right-footed drive from the edge of the area to the bottom corner by the vice-captain ensured that the Reds returned to winning ways in the Barclays Premier League by beating West Bromwich Albion 2-1 at Anfield on Saturday.
Henderson's contribution had already been significant - it was his cute back-heel, for example, that released Adam Lallana to break the deadlock for the home side with mere seconds remaining to play in the opening period.
But his decisive finish was required to secure all three points after Saido Berahino had won and converted a penalty 10 minutes after the restart, with the result allowing Brendan Rodgers' squad to reflect positively during the next fortnight.
"The three points are very important," Henderson told Liverpoolfc.com from the tunnel following the final whistle. "We knew it would be a tough game.
"I thought West Brom did very well at times, but the most important thing for us was a result and we managed to get it.
"We showed great character, determination and fight to win the game. At half-time we said we needed to find a way to win the game - that was the most important thing, and we did that.
"Going to 1-1 could have put our heads down. But we showed great character to go on and win the game, and we've got to show that more this season to get results and put in good performances.
"You don't want to be going into an international break having not won, because it's such a long wait for the next game.
"That's another plus for us. We can go away with a little bit more confidence, go to the internationals, come back and look forward to the next game."
Henderson's low strike on the hour mark, his first goal of the campaign, prompted a raucous celebration from the No.14 as he slid across the pitch and bellowed his obvious delight.
It was another typically industrious performance from the midfielder - recognised by supporters, who nominated the Englishman as their Man of the Match - and he took pleasure from playing a leading role.
"I was delighted to be involved in both goals," said the 24-year-old, who has been encouraged by manager Rodgers to regularly move into advanced positions.
"The three points were massive for us and I thought the team did very well and deserved that. To play a part in that was good for me. Hopefully we can kick on now and get more wins."