Chelsea midfielder Jordan Henderson has hit back at critics following an impressive start to life at Stamford Bridge.

The England international joined Xabi Alonso’s side on a free transfer in August, following the mutual termination of his Brentford contract, and it was initially felt as though he would barely feature this term.

Many believed Henderson would largely play a leadership role at Chelsea, with midfield duties likely to be shared between Moises Caicedo, Reece James, Romeo Lavia and Valentin Barco.

However, the 36-year-old has started both of Chelsea’s two matches since the international break - a 5-1 win over Bournemouth and a 2-0 triumph against Everton - and he has formed an excellent partnership with Caicedo in the middle of the park.

Henderson’s career at the top level was thought to have ended following his decision to move to Saudi Arabia in 2023, but he has bounced back in recent years and he is determined to prove the critics wrong at Chelsea.

Jordan Henderson message

Asked about those who criticised Chelsea’s decision to sign him this summer following the win over Everton, Henderson admitted (via Football.London): “Obviously, everyone around football talks whether that is the media or whatever. And, yeah, maybe that was the thought process, but I never felt that from Chelsea.

“From the minute that I spoke to them, and the manager, and the club, I still felt like they wanted me to help on the field. So that's all I try and do, and that's all the focus is on really, to be honest.

“In football there are going to be so many different opinions, so many people saying things and, for me, I just try and use it as fuel, use it as energy, to prove people wrong again. I just want to do my work and my business on the pitch. That's where I do be talking really.”

He added: “I'm enjoying the challenge. I think a lot of people spoke about the move when I came, but for me I’ve just got to do my talking on the pitch, really.

“I still work hard every day in training trying to help the team wherever I can. And when I play, I do my best to put in the best performance I can for the team.

“I still feel good. I still feel like I can compete at the highest level, so that's what I try and do, and just try and concentrate everything on football, and not get caught up with anything else, really, just concentrate on what I need to do for the team, and put in good performances.

“I'm loving it at the minute, you know, it helps when you're playing with top players around you and I feel like the team's really coming together.

“In terms of the spirit and togetherness, I can feel the fight so I feel good. I feel as if this is a good place for me and I am just excited to see what the future holds for this team.”