Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is being lined up to receive Sunderland’s freedom of the city, according to the Sunderland Echo.
The newspaper claims that the midfielder could receive the honour after lifting the Champions League trophy on Saturday following the Reds’ 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid.
The 28-year-old is a former Black Cats player, of course, and has clearly done his city proud since moving to Anfield.
The plans are thought to still be at an early stage, but they have been confirmed to the Echo by those at the Sunderland City Council.
OPINION
This would be a hugely well deserved honour for a phenomenal professional in Henderson. The England international has done his city proud, from his days with Sunderland, to what he’s achieved since moving to Liverpool. He has been a fantastic servant to the Reds and is the definition of a captain. Throughout this season there have been calls for Virgil van Dijk to replace the Wearsider as the team’s skipper, but that’s been proven to be ridiculous. Henderson is the leader of this group of Liverpool players and has taken his game, and that of his teammates, to new heights this campaign. If any modern day footballer deserves to receive the freedom of their home city, it is Henderson. He is a role model, someone who isn’t the most naturally gifted but who has achieved sensational things though hard work and dedication. Give him the freedom for goodness sake – no one deserves it more.
