England's Jordan Henderson Shares "Challenging Periods" Post Saudi Arabia Switch

England midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has experienced "challenging moments" after departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and acknowledges he might "have made different decisions".

The experienced player was widely criticized for departing Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a country where homosexuality are against the law.

Henderson had previously been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for disappointing or hurting members in the community members when he left Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax following a six-month period.

England Career and Reflections

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.

"I don't believe it was the cause why I didn't make the Euros," Henderson remarked. "While I was in Saudi I feel I was in every camp prior to the Euros."

"Timing-wise, with the situation in retrospect, yes - possibly I would have taken different decisions."

"But at the time that's how I thought and the decision I made was for many different reasons and solely I know them reasons."

Emotional Challenges

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

"Naturally I'm not without fault 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 proper thing."

England 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 thinks he still has plenty 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.

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