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Jordan Henderson has carved his place in England’s football history by becoming the first player to feature in four World Cups, yet his focus remains firmly on achieving success in the tournament’s knockout phase.

The 36-year-old midfielder reached this milestone when he came on as a late substitute in England’s 2-0 win over Panama on Saturday — a result that ensured England topped Group L and booked a last-32 meeting with DR Congo.

Henderson’s World Cup journey began in 2014, when Roy Hodgson’s side exited the competition at the group stage.

He later played key roles in England’s semi-final run in 2018 and their progression to the quarter-finals four years later.

Although his responsibilities in this edition of the tournament have evolved, Henderson remains committed to contributing in any way possible as England continue their pursuit to end six decades of disappointment on the world stage.

“Time goes very quickly,” he reflected. “It’s very special to represent my country at four World Cups.

“I’m just delighted to be a part of this team and it’s still as special now as it was when I made my debut.

“Time goes quickly, but I’m just delighted that I can help the team as much as possible, both on and off the field, and just try and give everything I can to help us achieve our dreams.”

England did what was required to emerge from a challenging group as winners, securing what appears to be a smoother path deeper into the tournament than if they had finished second.

Having experienced the intensity of knockout football before, Henderson knows the importance of composure and belief.

“Knockout football is just about staying calm in this moment, believing in what we’ve achieved so far to get here,” he said.

“We’ve got an incredible squad of players, it’s been a decent start in the group.

“Winning the group is not easy, so first and foremost I think the lads deserve a bit of credit for that.

“Now we’re starting the business end, knockout football, it’ll only get tougher from here.

“So we’ve just got to stay confident, follow what the manager wants us to do in the game plan and I think, if we can execute that, then we’ll have a good chance of winning games.”

England will face DR Congo for the first time. Although ranked 41st in the world, DR Congo impressed by collecting four points in the group stage, including a 1-1 draw with Portugal, in which Newcastle forward Yoane Wissa found the net.

Henderson added: “I saw in the first game they got a good result against Portugal. Wissa scored, we know him well.

“So a good team, some good players, very strong. In the knockout rounds no game is easy.”