England's Jordan Henderson Shares "Tough Times" After Saudi Move
England player Jordan Henderson reveals he has encountered "difficult moments" since departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and acknowledges he might "taken different decisions".
The 35-year-old received backlash for exiting Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a country where homosexuality are illegal.
Henderson had been known as a prominent supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for disappointing or hurting members in the community members when he left Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax following a six-month period.
England Career and Reflections
Henderson was omitted from Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has returned to the Premier League with Brentford and England's selection under Thomas Tuchel.
"I don't think it was the reason why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson commented. "When I was in Saudi I think I was in each gathering prior to the Euros."
"Timing, with the situation in retrospect, yes - perhaps I would have taken different decisions."
"But at the period that's how I felt and the decision I made was for numerous reasons and I alone know those reasons."
Emotional Struggles
"To be honest, over the past few years I have had several tough moments. It was similar to a parting when I left Liverpool."
"Of course I'm not without fault and I've made mistakes in the past. Naturally I will have throughout my career."
"However all I've ever attempted to do is the proper thing."
England Experience
Henderson has won 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.
He is in Tuchel's squad to play Wales and Latvia this week and thinks he still has a lot to offer on the pitch.
"The crucial people are the manager, the backroom staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.
"Inquire with them what they feel, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don't believe one of the best managers in Europe would be selecting me just to do that."