Henderson ended last season on loan at Coventry City

Sunderland midfielder Jordan Henderson has dismissed suggestions that he needs to be rested after an extended run in Steve Bruce's side.

The 19-year-old has made 19 appearances for the Black Cats this season but has recently come in for criticism from some sections of the club's supporters.

"I don't feel I need a rest," Henderson told BBC Newcastle.

"Tiredness is more a mental thing but I just think I've not played as well over the last couple of games."

He added: "I just need to keep focused and keep doing what I've been doing before."

Henderson has been drafted in to partner Albania international Lorik Cana at the heart of the Sunderland midfield following a knee injury to Lee Cattermole.

And he hopes that his rise from the North East club's academy could be an inspiration to other young players hoping to graduate to the first team.

"The young lads won 7-2 in the FA Youth Cup [against Sheffield Wednesday on Wednesday] and they're a good bunch," said Henderson.

"There are some very good players there and hopefully there are some more players to come from the academy.

"The league and the Youth Cup is massive, and the teams that have won the Youth Cup have been very good sides.

"It's a good learning curve for younger players. I enjoyed playing in the Youth Cup and it's a good experience."

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