Former Celtic midfielder Liam Henderson reportedly could be set for a return to British football, with reports indicating that both Bristol City and Swansea City are interested in landing him on a free transfer this summer. [Football Insider]
The 29-year-old is nearing the end of his stint in Italy after Empoli’s relegation from Serie A to Serie B. Henderson played regularly for the Tuscans last season, but their drop to the second tier appears to have paved the way for his departure, with his contract due to expire shortly.
Henderson has carved out a unique career path for a Scottish player, making over 100 appearances across Serie A and Serie B since leaving Scotland. His Italian adventure began with Bari before stints at Hellas Verona and Lecce, and more recently Empoli. Known for his technical ability and intelligent midfield play, he has gained respect within the Italian game, even if major honours have eluded him in recent years.
The midfielder came through the ranks at Celtic, breaking into the first team during the 2013–14 season. He memorably lifted the League Cup in 2015 and contributed during Brendan Rodgers’ unbeaten 2016–17 Premiership campaign. However, he narrowly missed out on a league winner’s medal, falling two appearances short of the required threshold.
Should he return to the UK, it would mark the end of a six-year spell abroad that few Scottish players have attempted, let alone sustained. Both Bristol City and Swansea City would see Henderson as a valuable midfield addition, bringing continental experience and a strong developmental pedigree from his time at the Hoops.
With Henderson now approaching the next chapter of his career, it remains to be seen whether the Scottish international will again play in the British game or extend his journey overseas. Either way, his next move will attract interest from fans of both his former clubs and those intrigued by his well-travelled footballing story.
