Sterling can prove big plus, says Henderson

The winger was signed from QPR as a 15-year-old for an initial fee of £600,000 that could rise to a reported £5m.

Four years later it is looking an excellent piece of business, with Sterling this season stepping to the fore with both club and country.

The 19-year-old was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award for his Liverpool performances and could be handed a starting berth in England’s Group D opener against Italy on Saturday.

“Raheem is a fantastic player,” Henderson said. “I think you’ve seen that in the Premier League and even when he’s played for England.

“I think he’s outstanding, he has no fear. For such a young boy he’s got great awareness and his knowledge of the game is really good.

“I think he can be a big plus for us in this World Cup. He can go as far as he wants to go. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, got good people around him, so he’s just got to keep working hard.

“He’ll be a top, top player.”

There is a six-strong Liverpool contingent in the Three Lions’ squad which landed in Brazil yesterday, including captain Steven Gerrard. His presence is helping the younger players to settle in and has boosted Henderson’s chances of starting the opening game in Manaus.

The pair have shone alongside one another in Liverpool’s midfield, meaning Henderson could next weekend make his first competitive appearance for England since the Euro 2012 exit to Italy.

“I think everybody has settled in really well,” Henderson said.

“There’s a lot of young lads that have come through together and know each other well.

“I think the more experienced lads have really welcomed everybody in and it’s a very close group.”