🔗 Share this article

England midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has faced "tough moments" after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he could "taken different decisions".

The veteran midfielder faced criticism for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a country where same-sex relationships are against the law.

Henderson had formerly been a vocal advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for disappointing or upsetting anyone in the LGBTQ+ community when he left Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax following a six-month period.

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.

"In my opinion it was the reason why I missed the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I feel I was in each gathering before the Euros."

"Timing-wise, with everything in looking back, yes - possibly I would have taken different decisions."

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

Emotional Struggles

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

"Of course I'm not without fault and I've made poor choices in the past. Naturally I will have during my career."

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

International Career

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 a lot to offer on the pitch.

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

"Inquire with them what they believe, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don't believe one of the finest managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."