'How his influence can help our future'

Since arriving at Anfield in 2011, the former Sunderland midfielder has grasped every opportunity to learn from the Reds' talismanic captain on the Melwood training pitches and in games.

Careful observation of Gerrard's methods and approach, aligned with pearls of wisdom from the man himself, have helped Henderson progress to become the skipper's deputy.

For his Anfield send-off on Saturday, the result did not go his or Liverpool's way - Crystal Palace had other ideas, battling from a goal down to secure a 3-1 result in the Barclays Premier League.

But looking ahead, Henderson hopes that the unrivalled influence of Gerrard has benefited the squad enough for them to evolve after his departure to LA Galaxy this summer.

"I'm definitely excited by the potential in the team," the England international told Liverpoolfc.com.

"We have got a lot of good young players that I feel will benefit from this season and they have had no better person to learn from than Steven Gerrard - that will be a huge influence on their career.

"Now it's time for us to kick on as a team and kick on as a group next season. We need to make sure that we finish on a good note next week and hopefully that will put us in good stead for the start of next season."

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Henderson continued: "He has been massive for me, I have said it many times before.

"He helped me as soon as I came into the club, even when things were a bit tougher he was always right behind me telling me how to improve and to keep working hard.

"I always felt that he believed in me and could see that I had potential. He stuck with me when times were a little bit tougher and then through the good times he was unbelievable as well. So he has had a huge influence on my career so far.

"When Stevie hasn't been in the team, I've tried to lead by example and do the best that I can. That's all I can do really.

"I'm sure whoever is captain will give it everything they've got and everyone will be right behind them. When I've stood in when Stevie hasn't been there, I've done the best that I can for the team and that's what I'll look to do in the future."

The weekend clash with Palace was the final Anfield fixture of the 2014-15 campaign.

As he reflected on a challenging season and considered what can be achieved going forward, Henderson had a note of gratitude for Liverpool supporters.

"Incredible again - every season I've been here they have been unbelievable," said the 24-year-old. "Everyone says the 12th man and that's certainly the case here.

"Next season they'll play another big part and hopefully this can be a fortress for us. We're looking for a big season so hopefully the crowd will be right behind us as always."

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