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Jordan Henderson was a “great buy” by Kenny Dalglish , says Liverpool FC boss Brendan Rodgers .

Henderson produced his best ever performance for the Reds in last weekend’s 5-0 thrashing of Tottenham Hotspur .

The England international was named man-of-the-match at White Hart Lane and won widespread acclaim for his display in Liverpool’s midfield.

Supporters were concerned that without the injured Steven Gerrard , the Reds would be over-run by Spurs but £16m man Henderson led a dominant performance.

The former England under-21 captain was offered the chance to swap Anfield for Fulham last summer as Rodgers began to re-shape the Liverpool squad after his arrival from Swansea City. But Henderson declined the move in favour of fighting for his place with the Reds.

The 23-year-old has started all 16 of Liverpool’s Premier League games this season and Rodgers says he deserves huge credit for the way he has improved.

“It was a great buy by Kenny,” said Rodgers. “Jordan didn’t set the fee, for which he’s taken a lot of criticism, but he’s 23, he’s six foot one, he can run all day and technically he’s very strong.

“Tactically, his understanding of when to press and when to stay is getting better all the time.”

Rodgers added: “It’s all down to him. Nobody else. I saw him play for England against France a few years ago, and I felt sorry for him. He was a young boy, a big talent, but the game just passed him by, tactically. That wasn’t his fault.”

Although Rodgers had to help develop aspects of Henderson’s game, the Reds boss says he never once had any worries over the player’s attitude.

“When I came into the club, he was a player I’d heard had a brilliant attitude,” said Rodgers. “That’s what I found.

“He’s a terrific player. He just needs confidence and constant work. He’s been outstanding for me. He’s a mentally tough boy, he’s very strong, and he’s great to work with. He will get better and better.”