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With much debate and theories surrounding what Jürgen Klopp will do in the summer, the future of Jon Flanagan is yet to be resolved. The 23-year-old fullback is back in matchday squads after recovering from a horrendously lengthy injury spell. The Liverpool native's role in a surprise title challenge in 2013/14 captured the imagination of fans as a young player with local ties to the club who more than merited his place in the side.
In his first season as Liverpool captain, Jordan Henderson has uncharacteristically suffered injury problems of his own. However, the midfielder is desperate to see Jon Flanagan part of the squad beyond the summer. Flangan's contract is up in the summer along with Kolo Touré and João Carlos Teixeira, but he's not as old as our Kolo or struggling for game time due to depth in the squad like Teixeira.
"It's huge that it gets sorted out", Henderson said on Flangan's expiring contract. "I don't think players and people like Flanno grow on trees to be honest. You have people like him and Stevie and Carra who have come through the Academy. The fans feel as though they are one of them really which they are.
"His whole family supports Liverpool. He has been a Liverpool supporter since he was a kid and he has had a difficult time for the last two years, but what I have seen him do behind the scenes is incredible really. He is a huge player for us, a huge player for the club and the fans as well. It is in everyone's interests for that to be sorted out soon."
Maybe the captain's comments suggest that there is a possibility that Flanagan could move on at the end of the season. After battling back from injury and looking decent on his return, Flanagan will probably get a few opportunities to prove his worth and shake off any lingering rust. With rescheduled Premier League games and a Europa League campaign to consider, Flanagan will get more chances to play.
With the exception of Nathaniel Clyne, Liverpool aren't deep or good enough at fullback to let Flanagan go. Sentiment aside, Cafu's favoured son should be in Liverpool colours next season.