England's Jordan Henderson Opens Up About "Tough Times" Post Saudi Arabia Switch
England player Jordan Henderson admits he has faced "tough moments" after departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he could "have made different decisions".
The veteran midfielder faced criticism for departing Liverpool in 2023 to sign with Al-Ettifaq in a nation where same-sex relationships are criminalized.
Henderson had previously been a high-profile champion of LGBTQ+ rights and said sorry for letting down or offending people in the LGBTQ+ community when he left Saudi Arabia to join Ajax six months later.
International Selection and Thoughts
Henderson was omitted from Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but is back to the Premier League with Brentford and England's selection under Thomas Tuchel.
"I don't think it was the reason why I missed the Euros," Henderson commented. "When I was in Saudi I think I was in each gathering prior to the Euros."
"Timing, with everything in hindsight, yes - possibly I would have made different decisions."
"However at the period that's how I thought and the decision I made was for numerous reasons and solely I know them reasons."
Personal Challenges
"To be honest, 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 without fault and I've made poor choices in the past. Of course I will have over my career."
"However all I've ever attempted to do is the right thing."
International Career
Henderson has earned 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 offer on the pitch.
"The most important people are the coach, the technical staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.
"Inquire with them what they think, if I am a motivator when I am here. I doubt one of the top managers in Europe would be selecting me just to do that."