Henderson has been criticised given his close work with the LGBTQ+ community
Jordan Henderson has opened up on his decision to leave Liverpool for Saudi Arabia for the first time since completing his move.
Henderson ended a 12-year association with the Reds to reunite with former teammate Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq and is one of the Saudi Pro League’s highest earners, with the midfielder reportedly earning £700,000-a-week.
His move has been met with severe backlash given the 33-year-old’s close work with the LGBT+ community to promote inclusivity in sport only to move to a country where same-sex relationships are considered illegal.
Speculation about his future on the international stage has also come about but Gareth Southgate confirmed he would still be available for selection while explaining that Gerrard was the reason behind his move.
“Stevie was a big reason obviously why I came,” he told Beanyman Sports.
“We need to be ready in the first week or so for the first game, but I’m sure we will be. We’ve had some good training sessions.
“So hopefully we can keep moving things in the right direction and definitely work together to try to make the team better and more successful.
“I’m focused on playing for Ettifaq and playing my best. If I’m doing that then there’s no reason why I can’t play for England, as the gaffer said.”
Henderson’s comments were met with a furious reaction from supporters who claimed that money was the sole reason behind his move.
“Bro just say money. No need to lie,” said one person.
“So what was the other reason mate?…..oh yea the 700k pw wages..thought so,” wrote a second.
Another tweeted: “How much more respect would you have for him if he just told the truth. Money money money!!!”
A fourth added: “Nothing to say about the rainbow armband yet?”
Related links:
- Rio Ferdinand claims players are going to Saudi Arabia for the ‘adventure’
- Al Etiffaq colour out LGBT armband in Jordan Henderson announcement video
- Kop Outs release statement after Jordan Henderson completes Saudi move
