Jordan Henderson Reflects on "Difficult Times" Following Saudi Move

Jordan Henderson playing for Brentford
Jordan Henderson has started six Premier League games for Brentford during the current campaign

English midfielder Jordan Henderson admits he has faced "tough moments" after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he might "have made different decisions".

The 35-year-old was widely criticized for departing Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a nation where homosexuality are against the law.

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

England Career and Reflections

Henderson was left out of Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but is back to the Premier League with Brentford and the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.

"I don't think it was the reason why I didn't make the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I believe I was in all the squads before the Euros."

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

"However at the moment that's how I felt and the decision I made was for many different reasons and solely I know them reasons."

Personal Struggles

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

"Naturally I'm not perfect and I've made mistakes in the past. Naturally I will have over my career."

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

England Experience

Henderson has won 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 believes he still has much to contribute on the pitch.

"The most important people are the head coach, the backroom staff and the players and what they believe," said Henderson.

"Ask them what they think, if I am a supporter when I am here. I doubt one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."

Dr. Susan Tate
Dr. Susan Tate

A dedicated advocate for child safety with over a decade of experience in community outreach and nonprofit management.