Sheffield United captain, Billy Sharp, has backed teammate Dean Henderson to be England No.1 at Euro 2020.
Henderson has been in fine form for the Blades this season during his second successive loan at the club from Manchester United.
The 22-year-old has helped Chris Wilder’s side to the second best defensive record in the Premier League behind leaders Liverpool. The goalkeeper has also kept the joint most clean sheets with nine.
Yet to receive his first senior England cap, Henderson has been called up to the last two squads to replace the injured Tom Heaton.
With Jordan Pickford struggling for form at Everton, many think he should be Gareth Southgate’s first choice at this summer’s tournament; including Sharp.
“He’s been brilliant and I’d be impressed by him even if he wasn’t playing for United, if he was putting in performances like he has been,” the Blades skipper told the Sheffield Star.
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“He has made just one error this season and it’s not up to me who picks England’s No.1, but I have to say that he’s the best goalkeeper I’ve ever played with and he’s got a great career ahead of him.”
Further boost for Henderson to be England No.1
While no player would wish injury on a fellow professional, it does offer them an opportunity. Which is exactly what has happened to Henderson with the case of Heaton.
The Aston Villa ‘keeper admits that he will not be available for inclusion in Southgate’s squad for Euro 2020.
“It’s comfortable that [my chances of playing at the Euros] have gone,” Heaton told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“It’s going to be a longer [spell out]. My ACL went and it’s only five-and-a-half weeks post-op now.”
As well as Pickford, Henderson is expected to be selected by Southgate alongside Burnley’s Nick Pope. Who will be chosen as number one remains to be seen.
Although England do have four international friendlies before the competition begins. Perhaps Henderson will be given his chance then.