Midfielder Henderson Opens Up About "Tough Periods" Post Saudi Transfer

English midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has encountered "tough moments" since departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "have made different decisions".

The veteran midfielder received backlash for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to sign with Al-Ettifaq in a nation where same-sex relationships are against the law.

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

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 factor why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson remarked. "While I was in Saudi I think I was in every camp prior to the Euros."

"Regarding timing, with the situation in retrospect, yes - perhaps I would have made different decisions."

"But at the time that's how I believed and the decision I made was for various reasons and I alone know those reasons."

Personal Challenges

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

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

"However all I've ever sought to do is the right thing."

England Career

Henderson has gained 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 offer on the pitch.

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

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