Aston Villa fullback Kieran Richardson isn't surprised by Jordan Henderson's success at Liverpool.

The pair played together at Sunderland and will face off in the FA Cup semifinal this weekend.

"Jordan came though at Sunderland," said Richardson.

"He was a good talent then, he's a great talent now. He's gone on to really impress.

"He moved to Liverpool - he started slowly - but the way he has responded shows the mental strength and strong character he has.

"He's flourishing in the Liverpool midfield and is one of their main players.

"Jordan has got leadership qualities but is also very humble and that's why he can be captain of a club like Liverpool in the future."