England's Jordan Henderson Opens Up About "Challenging Moments" After Saudi Move

Jordan Henderson playing for Brentford
Jordan Henderson has started multiple Premier League matches for Brentford this season

English midfielder Jordan Henderson reveals he has experienced "difficult moments" since leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and acknowledges he might "have made different decisions".

The experienced player faced criticism for departing Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a nation where LGBTQ+ relationships are illegal.

Henderson had previously been a vocal champion of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for disappointing or offending anyone in the community when he departed from Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax following a six-month period.

England Career and Thoughts

Henderson missed out on Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has returned to the Premier League with Brentford and the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.

"I don't think it was the factor why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson commented. "While I was in Saudi I feel I was in all the squads prior to the Euros."

"Regarding timing, with everything in retrospect, yes - maybe I would have taken different decisions."

"However at the moment that's how I thought and the decision I made was for many different reasons and only I know the rationale."

Emotional Struggles

"To be honest, over the past two years I have had various tough moments. It was similar to a separation when I left Liverpool."

"Naturally I'm not flawless and I've made errors in the past. Of course I will have during my career."

"However all I've ever sought to do is the correct thing."

England Career

Henderson has gained 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.

He is in Tuchel's squad to compete against Wales and Latvia this week and feels he still has much to contribute on the pitch.

"The crucial people are the head coach, the coaching staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.

"Ask them what they believe, if I am a supporter when I am here. I don't think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."

Heidi Porter
Heidi Porter

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