Jordan Henderson says he is ready to face Germany if asked by Gareth Southgate, and has revealed the message Jurgen Klopp sent him after England’s conflict with Die Mannschaft was confirmed.
The Liverpool captain’s participation in Euro 2020 was in doubt after he picked up a groin injury against Everton in February and then failed to make a single appearance for the rest of the season.
Although he took part in the Three Lions ‘last warm-up game against Romania, the midfielder was appointed as an unused substitute in both Gareth Southgates’ team’s first two Euro 2020 excursions.
Henderson made his first appearance in the tournament when he came off the bench at half-time in England’s final group match against the Czech Republic on Tuesday, and although he has not admitted that the road to recovery has not been easy, he says he is ready to play against Germany. .
“The toughest part of being an athlete is dealing with injuries,” he told the Daily Mail. “It was not easy. I’m pretty good.
“It was fantastic to finally get on the field in a competitive game and get 45 minutes under my belt. I feel really positive and hopefully I can continue to contribute to the team.”
Jordan Henderson made his Euro 2020 debut against the Czech Republic / Laurence Griffiths / Getty Images
England’s match against Germany at Wembley Stadium sees them face-to-face with Henderson’s club manager Manager Klopp.
When asked if the German boss had contacted him regarding the game, he replied: “Yes, he sent an SMS. As soon as the final whistle blew, he only sent a smiley emoji.”
Southgate hopes to play some demons against Germany on Tuesday, 25 years after his missed penalty against Die Mannschaft to Euro 96.
The winner of Tuesday’s match goes on to the quarterfinals where they meet either Sweden or Ukraine in Rome on July 3.
