Anfield legends by hoisting European Cup made to his father as schoolboy aged 10
is all good health-wise now. He will be so proud to see us win the game and win the Champions League. It will mean the world to him.
“It’s obviously emotional. We’ve come a long way as a team. We’ve had so many knockbacks and to finally get over the line, it is an amazing feeling and one that we will remember forever. It’s so special.”
Brian took Jordan to watch the 2003 Champions League final, and it was there, during a tepid goalless draw between Juventus and AC Milan, that as a 10-yearold he made his prediction.
But that was not the only motivation he had on an evening in Spain when he fulfilled his dream.
Henderson also revealed how a special message from one of his childhood friends just before the final had reminded him of his desire, even as a schoolboy to be a winner. “To lift the trophy was a special feeling, one that we will never forget,” he said with a grin.
“My dream as a kid was to win trophies. My best friend sent us a picture of me kissing a trophy when I was about 10, so that gave me even more motivation.
“The trophy was gold and it was quite big and I’m kissing it. I’m about 10, 11. That gave us a lot of motivation.”
So too, did the chance to join the most exclusive club at Anfield – the European captain elite. Only Emlyn Hughes (twice), Phil Thompson, Graeme Souness and Steven Gerrard had previously been presented with the trophy.
And it is, Henderson admitted, a sobering thought to now belong in such illustrious company.
“Yes, not bad,” he said.
“It was an unbelievable feeling. When the final whistle goes it’s amazing to know we have done it, and then to Incredible.”
It will take a while to sink in though and Henderson does not want to rest on his laurels just yet.
“Probably it will be after I finish football, but there is still a long way to go,” he added.
“I am 28, I want to achieve a lot, keep improving as a player, I want the team to keep improving, I want to win more, that is all my focus is on now.” lift the trophy.