Jordan Henderson may have spent only one season at Brentford, but Nathan Collins believes the former Bees midfielder left behind something much bigger than memories.
Henderson completed a move to Chelsea earlier this summer after his brief spell in west London, but his influence inside the Brentford dressing room remains clear.
According to captain Collins, the former England international quickly established himself as a leader both on and off the pitch, setting standards that the current squad now intends to maintain.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Collins highlighted Henderson’s character as one of his biggest strengths.
“The main thing is him as a person,” said Collins.
“It was a short stint, but I think he really enjoyed his time here. He showed his true colours by the end of the season – who he is and what he’s about.
“He got on with everyone, he had a really good attitude and looked forward to talking to people.”
While Henderson’s personality helped him connect with the Brentford squad, it was his approach to football that made perhaps the biggest difference.
Collins revealed that Henderson demanded high standards during training and matches, pushing those around him to improve.
“And his standards on the pitch were a really big thing. He drove them and he has a high set of standards. He really drove training a lot.”
Henderson’s departure therefore creates a leadership gap, but Collins is confident Brentford have enough quality within the squad to fill it.
“It’s tough that he’s gone, but we have a few players who can step into that role and help out. What he’s left from last season, I think that will continue.”
That could prove important for Brentford as they prepare for another demanding Premier League campaign.
The Bees have also been active in the transfer market, breaking their club record to sign Mamadou Sangare from Lens.
Collins has already seen enough to believe the midfielder can make a significant impact.
“He brings a lot of energy. He brings a lot of tackles and forward-thinking passes. He’s just a really good footballer and a smart footballer.
“He speaks really good English so he’s settled in really nicely and to have him in front of you, it’ll be a big help for all players.”
Sangare’s arrival gives Brentford another energetic option in midfield and could help compensate for the loss of Henderson’s experience.
The Bees will officially begin their Premier League campaign on Saturday, August 22, when Tottenham visit the Gtech Stadium.
For Collins, the return of competitive football cannot come soon enough.
“It’s exciting to get the Premier League season on again. I like routine and when you’re in that in the middle of the season, there’s nothing better.”
The Brentford captain knows Tottenham will provide a serious opening test, particularly with the visitors having had time to prepare under their new manager.
“Spurs have great players. They have really good players, they’ll be a tough team to beat and they’ve just had a pre-season together so it’ll be a really good game of football.”
But there is one factor Collins believes could give Brentford an extra edge: home support.
“But to back at home at the Gtech with our fans, I feel like they’ve missed us as well. It’ll be an exciting game.”
Henderson’s departure closes one chapter for Brentford, but Collins’ message is clear: the standards do not have to leave with him.
With experienced players stepping up, new recruits such as Sangare adding fresh energy and the Gtech Stadium ready to welcome the Bees back, Brentford believe they have the tools to move forward.
Henderson set the benchmark. Now Brentford must prove they can keep it high.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
