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English player Jordan Henderson states he has encountered "tough moments" since leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he could "have made different decisions".

The 35-year-old was widely criticized for departing Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a nation where same-sex relationships are illegal.

Henderson had formerly been a vocal champion of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for disappointing or offending members in the LGBTQ+ community when he left Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax six months later.

England Career and Thoughts

Henderson missed out on Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has returned to the Premier League with Brentford and the England squad under Thomas Tuchel.

"In my opinion it was the cause why I didn't make the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I feel I was in each gathering before the Euros."

"Regarding timing, with the situation in hindsight, yes - maybe I would have taken different decisions."

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

Personal Struggles

"To be honest, over the past couple of years I have had several tough moments. It felt like a break-up when I left Liverpool."

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

"However all I've ever tried to do is the right 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 thinks 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.

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