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England player Jordan Henderson admits he has faced "difficult moments" since departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he might "have made different decisions".

The experienced player received backlash for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to join Al-Ettifaq in a nation where LGBTQ+ relationships are criminalized.

Henderson had previously been a high-profile advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and said sorry for upsetting or upsetting members in the community when he exited Saudi Arabia to join Ajax half a year after.

International 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.

"I don't believe it was the factor why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson commented. "When I was in Saudi I believe I was in each gathering leading up to the Euros."

"Timing, with all things in retrospect, yes - perhaps I would have taken different decisions."

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

Personal Struggles

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

"Naturally I'm not perfect and I've made mistakes in the past. Of course I will have over my career."

"However all I've ever sought 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 face Wales and Latvia this week and believes he still has plenty to contribute on the pitch.

"The crucial people are the head coach, the technical staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.

"Inquire with them what they feel, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don't think one of the finest managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that."