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England midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has faced "difficult moments" since leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and admits he could "have made different decisions".

The 35-year-old faced criticism for departing Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a nation where LGBTQ+ relationships are against the law.

Henderson had been known as a prominent champion of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for letting down or offending anyone in the community when he left Saudi Arabia to join Ajax six months later.

England Career and Thoughts

Henderson missed out on Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but is back 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. "While I was in Saudi I think I was in all the squads before the Euros."

"Timing-wise, with everything in looking back, yes - maybe I would have made different decisions."

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

Personal Challenges

"I am not going to lie, over the past couple of years I have had several tough moments. It was similar to a break-up when I left Liverpool."

"Of course I'm not without fault and I've made poor choices in the past. Naturally I will have during my career."

"But all I've ever tried to do is the proper thing."

International Career

Henderson has gained 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 plenty to provide on the pitch.

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

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