Outgoing Everton midfielder Andros Townsend has named Jordan Henderson as the player who has gone to the most effort to distract him during games.
This tactic of uttering phrases in the hope of provoking a reaction from an opponent is widely utilised not only in football but also in other sports, particularly cricket. Frowned upon by some, it has become a part of the game regardless.
Townsend, who will leave the Blues once his current deal expires at the end of this month, has faced off against Henderson 16 times during his playing career and has come out on top on only one occasion. They last both took to the pitch during Liverpool's 4-1 win at Goodison Park in December 2021, a fixture which saw Henderson named man of the match after his all-action display.
Reds fans will best remember their current captain for his impressive work ethic when the time comes for him to leave the club, though Townsend will share an alternative, overriding memory of the former Sunderland midfielder. Asked to name who has been the worst individual for putting him off during matches, Townsend talk talkSPORT: "Probably [Jordan] Henderson. He’s always talking, he’s always at you. He’s one."
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The pair, so often going head-to-head against each other, have been team-mates when in action together on the international stage. Townsend is no longer a regular member of the England squad, though earned 13 caps between 2013 and 2016.
His next club remains to be seen as he prepares to become a free agent after two years spent at Everton.
