England's Jordan Henderson Reflects on "Difficult Moments" Following Saudi Arabia Move

Jordan Henderson playing for Brentford
Jordan Henderson has played in multiple Premier League games for Brentford this season

English player Jordan Henderson reveals he has experienced "challenging moments" after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "have made different decisions".

The 35-year-old faced criticism for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a country where LGBTQ+ relationships are illegal.

Henderson had previously been a vocal advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for upsetting or upsetting members in the LGBTQ+ community when he departed from Saudi Arabia to join Ajax following a six-month period.

International Selection and Thoughts

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

"I don't think it was the reason why I missed the Euros," Henderson stated. "While I was in Saudi I think I was in all the squads before the Euros."

"Timing-wise, with all things in hindsight, yes - perhaps I would have made different decisions."

"However at the period that's how I felt and the decision I made was for various reasons and I alone know the rationale."

Emotional Struggles

"To be honest, over the past couple of years I have had several tough moments. It was similar to a break-up when I left Liverpool."

"Of course I'm not perfect and I've made errors in the past. Of course I will have throughout my career."

"However all I've ever tried to do is the proper thing."

England Experience

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 thinks he still has a lot to contribute on the pitch.

"The most important people are the coach, the technical staff and the players and what they feel," said Henderson.

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

Angela Johnson
Angela Johnson

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