English midfielder Jordan Henderson admits he has encountered "tough moments" after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and acknowledges he could "taken different decisions".
The experienced player received backlash for departing Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalized.
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 sign with Ajax half a year after.
England Career and Reflections
Henderson was omitted from Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has come back to the Premier League with Brentford and the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.
"I don't think it was the reason why I missed the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I think I was in every camp before the Euros."
"Timing-wise, with everything in hindsight, yes - perhaps I would have made different decisions."
"However at the moment that's how I believed and the decision I made was for numerous reasons and only I know them reasons."
Personal Struggles
"Honestly speaking, over the past few years I have had several tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool."
"Certainly I'm not perfect and I've made mistakes in the past. Naturally I will have over my career."
"But all I've ever sought to do is the correct thing."
England Experience
Henderson has earned 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.
He is in Tuchel's squad to face Wales and Latvia this week and believes he still has a lot to contribute on the pitch.
"The most important people are the head coach, the technical staff and the players and what they believe," said Henderson.
"Ask them what they feel, if I am a supporter when I am here. I doubt one of the finest managers in Europe would be selecting me just to do that."
