Jordan Henderson believes many of Liverpool’s international players have returned to Melwood with ‘a spring in their step’ after a productive period with their countries.

The captain is certain the Reds can capitalise on such confidence when they take to the field against Southampton this afternoon after several members of the squad enjoyed positive results over the last fortnight while on duty for their nations.

Writing in his column in ‘This is Anfield’, Henderson said: “It probably felt to some people that the international break came at a bad time for us. Coming off the back off three wins, scoring 10 goals and only conceding one, everyone at Liverpool was probably ready to play again on the Sunday morning after West Ham.

“But there’ll be plenty of our lads coming back from the break with a spring in their step, because for the players there were some really good moments during the last fortnight.”

Two such players who enjoyed a fruitful international break were Joe Gomez and Dominic Solanke, who won their first caps for England’s senior team.

Henderson added: “I know the entire dressing room was made-up for Joe Gomez and Dom Solanke for both making their senior England debuts.

“Joe’s story is well-known at Liverpool and the admiration we all have for the journey he’s been on in the last two years is second-to-none.

“In no way is this full England selection the end of that journey, though – it’s just the beginning. Joe won’t think he’s cracked it now – he’ll think he’ll have to work even harder. That’s what’s got him to this point and it’s why we all admire him so much.

“Likewise Dom Solanke. The supporters have only had glimpses of Dom on the pitch so far because of the incredible talent we have at that end of the field, and no doubt he’ll continue to be patient.

“But we see him every day in training and it was no surprise to me that the senior England team were keen to get him involved.”

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