People disparaging Henderson should understand that he's been bought for his talent, not for what he brings to the team right now. Hes supposed to be gerrards understudy, sadly gerrard had been injured all season so Henderson had played far more than intended. At the same time, he's clearly improved, and whole he's clearly not the next gerrard, he's a pretty capable player.
Spearing is Lucas's backup, and was developed within the club. No one thinks he's amazing, but he's a decent backup who will only improve with playing time. He's not intended as a starter.
As for Carroll and Adam, yeah they're shit. Can't stand Adam. Downing seems to lack the mentality for a big club. He's a decent enough player, but produces the square root of bugger all. Hell even Carroll might have finished that 1v1!
And one more thing; dalglish works with comolli and the owners to make transfers. Downing for example is a clear comolli transfer.