England's Jordan Henderson Reflects on "Tough Periods" Post Saudi Transfer

Jordan Henderson playing for Brentford
Jordan Henderson has played in multiple Premier League fixtures for Brentford in the present term

English player Jordan Henderson reveals he has encountered "challenging moments" after 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 country where homosexuality are illegal.

Henderson had formerly been a high-profile supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for letting down or offending members in the community members when he exited Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax six months later.

England Selection and Thoughts

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

"In my opinion it was the reason why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I think I was in each gathering leading up to the Euros."

"Timing, with all things in looking back, yes - possibly 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 them reasons."

Emotional Challenges

"Honestly speaking, over the past two years I have had some tough moments. It felt like a separation when I left Liverpool."

"Naturally I'm not without fault and I've made errors in the past. Certainly I will have over my career."

"But all I've ever attempted to do is the right thing."

England Experience

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

He is in Tuchel's squad to face Wales and Latvia this week and thinks he still has a lot to provide on the pitch.

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

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

Jennifer Jackson
Jennifer Jackson

A seasoned business analyst with over a decade of experience in tech and finance, passionate about data-driven insights and innovation.