Jordan Henderson predicts 2018 will prove to be a big year for Adam Lallana after he made his first start of the season in the New Year’s Day win at Burnley.

After an injury sustained in pre-season ruled him out of almost all of the campaign to date, the playmaker turned in a lively display at Turf Moor to help Liverpool to a 2-1 victory.

Writing in his programme notes for ‘This is Anfield’, Henderson said: “I want to give a mention to my pal Adam Lallana. Turf Moor was his first start for Liverpool this season and I can tell you, given the amount of time we spend together, it’s a moment both he and the team have been looking forward to.

“There’s no secret that Adz and his family are very close to my own and it has been hard for him having to sit and watch these opening months of the season. He lives and breathes football more than any other person I’ve met. But the impressive thing is that not for one second has he felt sorry for himself. He’s been in and around the lads during that time, offering support and advice.

“At a time when he’d have been entitled to be a bit distant, due to missing big games and big moments, he’s been the opposite. He’s been in amongst it and that’s why he’s so important to this club, on and off the pitch.

“His sprint back and tackle at Turf Moor in the opening 20 minutes or so got a massive reaction from the crowd and it summed up what he’s all about.

“I’ve no doubt 2018 is going to be a massive year for him, now this injury set-back is dealt with.

“But maybe a trip to the hairdresser to get that barnet trimmed down is the final thing he should consider – and I know I’m not alone in thinking that!”

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