Jordan Henderson Reflects on "Challenging Moments" After Saudi Arabia Switch
English midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has faced "difficult moments" after departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "have made different decisions".
The experienced player was widely criticized for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a country where homosexuality are against the law.
Henderson had previously been a vocal advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for disappointing or offending people in the community members when he left Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax half a year after.
England Career 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.
"In my opinion it was the factor why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I believe I was in each gathering leading up to the Euros."
"Timing, with the situation in looking back, yes - maybe I would have taken different decisions."
"But at the period that's how I felt and the decision I made was for various reasons and solely I know them reasons."
Emotional Struggles
"To be honest, over the past few years I have had some tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool."
"Of course I'm not flawless and I've made poor choices in the past. Naturally I will have over my career."
"However all I've ever attempted to do is the right 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 feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch.
"The most important people are the head coach, the technical staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.
"Inquire with them what they believe, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I doubt one of the top managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."