Stats say Henderson’s suspension is a mighty blow for Liverpool

There are plentiful reasons for Liverpool fans to be jubilant following what felt like a giant leap towards a first English crown in 24 years after they defeated title rivals Manchester City 3-2 at Anfield.

For the first time all season the destination of the most elusive of Premier League titles is truly in the Reds’ own hands and as such, Liverpool are the new odds-on favourites to win it at 8/11.

However, without wishing to sound like a party pooper there is one matter which has been overlooked in all the ecstasy and tribute-paying associated with such a monumental Liverpool win.

That being the moment of madness which saw Jordan Henderson sent off for his wild lunge in the dying minutes, where the midfielder’s overzealousness gave referee Mark Clattenburg zero choice.

Naturally, many people will shrug off Henderson’s absence for the next three games given that Brendan Rodgers has a ready-made replacement in Joe Allen and the cover of Lucas to call on.

But as unglamorous a cog as Henderson is perceived to be in this swashbuckling Liverpool winning machine, this would be a little short-sighted.

In fact, the former Sunderland man’s indispensability to the Liverpool cause should not be underestimated according to some pretty stark stats.

Incredibly, Henderson has featured in every single one of Liverpool’s 39 games during 2013/14, which is testament to his dazzling development this season, in turn helping him become a 1/2 chance to make the World Cup with Ladbrokes.

Furthermore, the last three games in which Henderson hasn’t started for the Reds – reaching back to 3-1 Premier League loss to Southampton last season, reads as LDL.

In a team brimming with so much talent, Henderson’s unrivalled engine and ability to keep the side ticking over have become as essential as the invention of others such as Philippe Coutinho.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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