Jordan Henderson can not wait for more Premier League action after earning his first league start for Sunderland.
Black Cats teenager wants more Premier League starts
Jordan Henderson can not wait for more Premier League action after earning his first league start for Sunderland against Chelsea on Tuesday night.
The 19-year-old midfielder was thrown into the deep end against England star Ashley Cole in the game at the Stadium of Light which saw the Blues prevail 3-1.
But far from being intimidated by such an occasion, the experience has left Henderson wanting more, starting with Saturday's visit of Blackburn to Wearside.
He said: "They were brilliant and the manager said to us that we won't come up against a side as good as Chelsea every week.
"We have Blackburn at home on Saturday and that's what we have to focus on.
More confident
"I felt a lot more confident going into last night than when I went on as a sub at Chelsea last season, so I need to take that forward.
"I'm knackered now but excited about the weekend and hopefully I can keep my place.
"I was told a couple of hours before kick-off that I would be playing. It was a great feeling.
"I was on cloud nine but was also trying to stay focused. I was confident about it. I knew I would have to work hard and I gave it everything I've got.
"I just need to keep working hard now. I was up against one of the best defenders in the world in Ashley Cole."
Local boy Henderson made two senior appearances last season - as a substitute in a 5-0 league defeat at Chelsea and a start in a League Cup defeat by Blackburn.
Bruce pleased
However, he got 13 appearances under his belt on loan at Coventry and has clearly impressed new boss Steve Bruce since his arrival at the club.
Asked about Henderson's performance, the manager said: "I thought he did well.
"He will learn from the experience of playing against Ashley Cole. The kid ran a million miles and covered every blade of grass, which he had to.
"I am sure the kid has a huge future and he will learn."
