Jordan Henderson Shares "Tough Periods" After Saudi Move

England midfielder Jordan Henderson admits he has experienced "difficult moments" since departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "taken different decisions".

The experienced player received backlash for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a nation where homosexuality are illegal.

Henderson had been known as a high-profile advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for letting down or hurting anyone in the community members when he left Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax half a year after.

England Career and Thoughts

Henderson was left out of Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but is back to the Premier League with Brentford and the national team under Thomas Tuchel.

"I don't think it was the reason why I didn't make the Euros," Henderson stated. "When I was in Saudi I believe I was in every camp before the Euros."

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

"However at the moment that's how I believed and the decision I made was for various reasons and solely I know those reasons."

Emotional Struggles

"Honestly speaking, over the past few years I have had several tough moments. It was similar to a break-up when I left Liverpool."

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

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

England 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 much to provide on the pitch.

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

"Ask them what they believe, if I am a motivator when I am here. I doubt one of the finest managers in Europe would be selecting me just to do that."