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English player Jordan Henderson reveals he has experienced "challenging moments" after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "taken different decisions".

The veteran midfielder was widely criticized for departing Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a nation where same-sex relationships are criminalized.

Henderson had been known as a high-profile champion of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for disappointing or hurting people in the community when he departed from Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax following a six-month period.

England Career and Thoughts

Henderson was omitted from Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but is back to the Premier League with Brentford and England's selection under Thomas Tuchel.

"I don't believe it was the factor why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson remarked. "While I was in Saudi I believe I was in every camp leading up to the Euros."

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

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

Personal Struggles

"To be honest, over the past two years I have had some tough moments. It seemed like a separation when I left Liverpool."

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

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

International Career

Henderson has earned 85 caps since making his England debut against France in 2010.

He is in Tuchel's squad to play Wales and Latvia this week and believes he still has much to provide on the pitch.

"The key people are the manager, the technical staff and the players and what they think," said Henderson.

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