TALKING CELTIC
Henderson was an integral part of the history-making collective who famously claimed the Scottish Cup back in May.
Since returning to Glasgow, the pace of his progression, at least in terms of minutes, has slowed somewhat. Going from playing 48 times for the Hibees last term, the 20-year-old has started just six games for the Premiership champions this season. Seven substitute appearances bring the total to 13.
The reason for this is simple: the talented midfielder is a victim of circumstance. The landscape he left prior to his switch to Easter Road is far different to the one he returned to. In direct competition he now finds the rejuvenated pairing of Scott Brown and Stuart Armstrong, while Australian Tom Rogic completes a hat-trick of internationalists in his way.
It is a long journey from the steep-but-rewarding learning curve provided by Hibs last year, but there is no hint of complaining from the young man who has been in green and white hoops since he was 12.
“It’s been brilliant being back at Celtic,” he told SportTimes. “I’ve enjoyed every minute under Brendan Rodgers. He’s been unbelievable for me.
“I’ve learned so much. We are training at a high level every day. When I’ve been given the opportunity I feel that I’ve done myself justice. It’s been a brilliant season for me.
“Celtic is a massive club. At the end of the day they are a Champions League club. You can see Broony and Stu playing for the national team the other night, Tom Rogic has played for Australia every time he’s away.
“I’m only 20. For me I just need to keep working away. It’s not going to get handed to me on a plate.
“Celtic is the biggest club in Scotland and I need to keep working and learning every day. I need to keep learning off these boys.
“He’s always said to me since he came in that he’ll give young boys a chance and that if you are good enough he will have no hesitation about putting you in the team. I’m delighted to be at Celtic under Brendan.”
NOT daunted by those in front of him, Henderson seeks to take inspiration from their experience and recent endeavours.
Under both Ricky Sbragia and now Scot Gemmill he has become a key part of the Scotland Under-21 setup. He is now their