Jordan Henderson's development at Liverpool over the past few years has been quite incredible.The Englishman has gone from a bit-part player on the cusp of being sold to arguably the Reds' most important player.Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino are crucial to the way Jurgen Klopp's side operates, but their midfield general and inspirational captain may just be the key cog in the machine.As well as leading the midfield and protecting the defence in 2019/20, Henderson has also contributed with three goals and five assists in his 25 Premier League appearances. He's the complete package these days.Ever since Henderson was injured away at Atletico Madrid, Liverpool's midfield has looked a pale shadow of the animal that dominated English football for pretty much an entire year.Last night against Chelsea in the FA Cup, Fabinho - who was filling in for Henderson - was an absolute disaster and was dominated by 18-year-old Billy Gilmour.Liverpool's 2-0 loss to the Blues was their third defeat in four games and Gary Lineker believes the Reds' recent form could see Henderson land personal accolades come the end of the season.The BBC Match of the Day host tweeted last night: "There’s every chance that @JHenderson’s injury could well clinch him the Footballer of the Year trophy. Sometimes you don’t realise a player’s importance to a side until they’re absent."

He might be onto something.

When Alisson was injured for the first few months of the season, the Reds still looked imperious at the back.

Mane's short time on the treatment table a few weeks back also did little to derail the campaign, but Henderson's absence has been evidently detrimental to the club's momentum.

As per Oddschecker, Henderson is currently the second favourite to win the PFA Player of the Year behind Mane.

After Liverpool's noticeable decline since he hobbled off at the Wanda Metropolitano, maybe his odds should be shortened...