Chris Wilder claims his on-loan Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson is relishing the chance to throw a spanner into the works of Liverpool’s winning machine.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reds arrive at Bramall Lane on Saturday having reeled off a club record 15 straight league wins to power to the top of the Premier League.
Wilder rates Henderson as the Premier League’s best young goalkeeper and says the England Under-21 star is determined to shut out Liverpool’s star-studded attack.
“I feel we’ve got the best young goalkeeper in the country,” said the Sheffield United boss. “He will rise to the occasion, I’m sure.
“He, as much as any of the rest of my players, will relish going toe to toe with Liverpool on Saturday.
(Image: George Wood)
“He’s going to have to make some big saves and I’m sure he will do come the time.
“He’s an outstanding goalkeeper. I love him as a personality. He’s got something different, something about him. He certainly enjoys the big occasions.”
Wilder claims Henderson, who kept 21 clean sheets last season to win the Championship’s Golden Glove, will thrive on the stick from the Liverpool fans because he is a United player.
He says the 22-year-old will want to perform well because he knows this game is an opportunity to showcase his burgeoning ability.
“I’m sure, knowing Dean, there might be a reaction coming back their way!” he said.
(Image: Getty Images)
“That’s part of parcel of his character. Just as long as he doesn’t overstep the mark and concentrates on keeping the ball out of the back of the net.
“He knows this season, not just this game, there are going to be some big moments in games and he’s got to produce and come up with the goods, not only for us to gain points and be successful, but for his individual career as well.
“He’s really looking forward to the occasion as much as anyone else is.”
