Andrews on Henderson influence | OneFootball

Brentford head coach Keith Andrews has spoken about the impact that Jordan Henderson has had at the club and discussed the midfielder's prospects of playing for England at next summer's FIFA World Cup.

The 35-year-old made his full debut for the Bees in Saturday's 1-0 Premier League win against Aston Villa at Gtech Community Stadium, having featured from the bench on the opening day at Nottingham Forest.

Should be selected by England manager Thomas Tuchel, the 2026 World Cup will be Henderson's seventh major tournament with the Three Lions.

"He's a big presence as I'm sure people are aware of and know," said Andrews.

"For what he's done by coming here, he's shown a real hunger to still play at the most elite level in world football, because that's what I think the Premier League is.

"He's been back in the England squad in recent months and has got that goal of the World Cup next summer.

"I think that's a realistic target for him, with where he's at at the moment in the England squad and being an integral part of what they're trying to do."

Andrews continued: "For us, the way he carries himself, his presence on the pitch, his leadership qualities; I think it [signing Henderson] did go a little bit under the radar.

"There's been so much narrative around the club losing some players, Christian Nørgaard the captain being one of those who is someone who I loved working with last year and had huge admiration for.

"When he became available, I was very sure he would be the right person to have in that area of the pitch for numerous reasons."