Jordan Henderson has started six Premier League games for Brentford this season.
England midfielder Jordan Henderson has acknowledged experiencing “tough moments” following his departure from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia, suggesting he “could have made different decisions.”
The 35-year-old faced widespread criticism for joining Al-Ettifaq in 2023, given Saudi Arabia’s laws against same-sex relationships.
Henderson, previously a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, later apologized for any hurt caused to the community when he left Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax six months later.
Despite missing out on Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, Henderson has returned to the Premier League with Brentford and is now part of the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.
“I don’t think it was the reason why I missed the Euros,” Henderson stated. “When I was in Saudi, I think I was in every camp prior to the Euros.”
“Timing, with everything in hindsight, yes – maybe I would have made different decisions.”
“But at the time, that’s how I felt, and the decision I made was for many different reasons, and only I know those reasons.”
“I am not going to lie; over the past couple of years, I have had some tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool.”
“Of course, I’m not perfect, and I’ve made mistakes in the past. Of course I will have throughout my career.”
“But all I’ve ever tried to do is the right thing.”
Henderson has earned 85 caps since his England debut against France in 2010.
He is included in Tuchel’s squad for the upcoming matches against Wales and Latvia and believes he still has much to contribute on the field.
“The most important people are the manager, the coaching staff and the players and what they think,” said Henderson.
“Ask them what they think, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don’t think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that.”
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