Dean Henderson is quickly becoming a fan favorite at Crystal Palace, not only for his stellar performances on the field but also for his approachable nature off it.

After being instrumental in last season’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City – a historic event that secured Palace’s first significant trophy – Henderson once again emerged as the hero in the Community Shield match against Liverpool.

At the electrifying Wembley Stadium, the England international goalkeeper made pivotal saves during the penalty shootout, thwarting both Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. His outstanding efforts contributed to Oliver Glasner’s team winning the trophy and starting the new season with a triumph.

But Henderson’s goodwill didn’t stop there.

Post-game, he surprised fans with a visit to a local pub, where he happily took selfies with them. Demonstrating his generosity, he reportedly set up a £1,000 tab, encouraging Palace supporters to enjoy some drinks on his account.

“Legend. Totally gets this club. Cheers,” one fan wrote on Instagram alongside a selfie with the goalkeeper.

One fan, however, walked away with arguably something even more valuable than a few drinks and a selfie.

Following the win on penalties, Henderson accidentally left his water bottle by the goalposts. Attached to it was a cheat sheet outlining Liverpool’s penalty habits – accurately predicting the direction that Mac Allister and Elliott would choose for their saved kicks.

That bottle found its way into the hands of a lucky supporter, giving them a certified piece of Crystal Palace – and Wembley – history.