Jordan Henderson and England Preparing to Face “Very Tough” German Side

As far as big headlining pairings in the upcoming Euro round of 16, it’s hard to beat England vs. Germany, a match with more than little bit of history in international football—and one that could give England a chance to exorcise some demons.

“It will be a very tough test,” Liverpool captain and England midfielder Jordan Henderson said of the upcoming tie against a German side that has struggled to live up to expectations so far at the Euros. “We need to stay focused and have no regrets.

“It’s a special game for the players, for the fans—it’s what you want to be playing in at these tournaments. It will be a very tough test. They’re still a very good side. They have quality all over the pitch. We need to prepare well and give everything.”

Having just returned from a lengthy injury layoff shortly before the start of the tournament, Henderson’s role has been more limited than it might otherwise have been, but if England go deep at the Euros he will have a significant part to play.

The midfielder made his first appearance of the tournament coming on at the half against the Czech Republic, making a positive impact and scoring a goal that ruled out for offside while England saw out a 1-0 victory in the final group stage game.

England’s side of the bracket means they’re playing Germany for the chance to face Sweden or Ukraine in the quarter finals before a semi-final that will pair that game’s winner with one of Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Wales, or Denmark.