Maturing Liverpool vice-captain Jordan Henderson has made his ambitions clear by expressing a desire to fill the vacant captaincy following Steven Gerrard’s departure.

The 25-year-old midfielder has grown a lot, both technically and mentally, since joining the club in 2011; slowly progressing within the ranks and making himself an integral part of Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Additionally, his experience captaining the England U-21 team and his years learning from Gerrard as a mentor make him a strong contender for the role of skipper at Anfield - even though he is not the most senior member of the squad.

Other viable options for the position include Martin Škrtel, who is the current captain for Slovakia and the longest serving player on the current squad, proving his loyalty to the club and making him superior in experience to Henderson.

Henderson keen to take responsibility

Sunderland-born Henderson explained that Gerrard has been a "huge role model" and that he has learned a lot from him. However, he remained very humble by conceding to the fact that the squad has "a lot of leaders in the dressing room" while making it clear that no matter who wears the armband next season "the lads will be right behind" them.

He added: "I have always wanted to take more responsibility, especially at the stage of my career I am at. I feel like I'm getting a bit older now. I'm a bit more mature and I want to take more responsibility for the team.

"But at the same time, I think it is up to all of us as a team to take more responsibility on the pitch and make sure we put in good performances.

"We are good enough to be challenging in the Champions League but I think also winning a trophy will be one of our ambitions next season," Henderson said. "I think we're good enough to go and win a trophy and and that's what the fans really deserve." 

Henderson’s interview reflected spirit and presence, which has become increasingly visible to the supporters, who will surely welcome seeing him lead Liverpool out of a disappointing season and hopefully into a prosperous one.