Former Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand has spoken of playing alongside Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson.

The Reds captain has drawn plaudits, even from some of his previous critics, for his tireless running and never-say-die attitude.

And Ferdinand recalled to Joe: "My first game for Sunderland was a reserve team game and he played on the right wing.

"I said to a few of the coaching staff 'who's that boy, he has got a chance'.

"When he started coming to train with us, I saw what everyone is seeing now in terms of his work ethic.

"For instance, if I was in the gym and did 20 pull-ups, he would look at it and because I was a first-team player, think he had to be able to do the same.

"He would make sure in the coming weeks that he could do it. That shows the mental strength he had.

"Pre-season, he made sure he was in top shape going back for the start of the season. As a footballer, having that takes your confidence to the next level."