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English player Jordan Henderson admits he has experienced "difficult moments" since departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and acknowledges he could "have made different decisions".

The veteran midfielder was widely criticized for exiting Liverpool in 2023 to sign with Al-Ettifaq in a nation where LGBTQ+ relationships are illegal.

Henderson had been known as a vocal advocate of LGBTQ+ rights and expressed regret for disappointing or hurting people in the community when he exited Saudi Arabia to move to Ajax half a year after.

England Selection and Thoughts

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

"I don't think it was the reason why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson commented. "When I was in Saudi I feel I was in every camp before the Euros."

"Regarding timing, with all things in looking back, yes - maybe I would have made different decisions."

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

Emotional Struggles

"Honestly speaking, over the past two years I have had some tough moments. It was similar to a separation when I left Liverpool."

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

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

International Career

Henderson has gained 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 thinks he still has a lot to offer on the pitch.

"The most important people are the manager, the backroom staff and the players and what they feel," said Henderson.

"Question them what they believe, 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."