My older bruv is giving me a helping Hend
Celtic kid Ewan Henderson has revealed he taps into big brother Liam’s knowledge to improve his game.
The Scotland Under-21 midfielder was part of the squad that helped Scot Gemmill’s side top of their group last week after a well-earned goalless draw in the Czech Republic.
Henderson broke into the Parkhead team last term and started four games last term before playing in the Champions League qualifier against FK Sarajevo this season too.
Now he has joined Ross County on a season-long loan in search of game-time and more experience.
Brother Liam also had successful loan spells at Hibs and Rosenborg, while at Celtic, before making the surprise switch to Italy with Bari.
And after earning a move to Verona, he became the first Scot to play in Serie A since Graeme Souness ran out for Sampdoria in 1986.
Ewan, 19, said: “Liam has been doing unbelievably well in Serie A. He has done so well and I’m so proud of him.
“We talk all the time, every day on FaceTime, and I text him a lot too.
“I even went over to see him in the last international break.
“He is learning every day on the pitch and, off it, he’s taking Italian lessons. His language skills have improved a lot.
“There are not many boys from Scotland who have gone to Italy and achieved what Liam has done.
“But it shows it’s possible for Scottish players to try things like that.
“Liam is always watching me and giving me advice on how to help my game. He has been a massive help to my career.
“But he’s miles better than me! He’s a few years older but I’ll never be as good as him.
“My family watch me at Ross County then go to Italy to see Liam – that’s a lot of travelling. They are really proud of us.”
Henderson has already made three starts for the Staggies, although he had to miss out against parent club Celtic yesterday, and is convinced he made the right decision to go out on loan.
He said: “For the good of my career, I needed to play first-team games.
“County offered me the best chance to do that and it has gone great so far.
“The managers at County (Stuart Kettlewell and Stevie Ferguson) have been amazing for me, so positive.
“They’ve helped me on and off the pitch and been superb. The team spirit is unbelievable at County. We go for meals, go for coffee after training.
“Celtic will be watching me all the time. I’m just working hard to do as well as possible.”