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English midfielder Jordan Henderson states he has experienced "challenging moments" after departing from Liverpool for Saudi Arabia and says he could "taken different decisions".

The 35-year-old was widely criticized for leaving Liverpool in 2023 to play for Al-Ettifaq in a nation where homosexuality are against the law.

Henderson had formerly been a prominent champion of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for letting down or hurting members in the community members when he left Saudi Arabia to sign with Ajax following a six-month period.

International Career and Reflections

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

"In my opinion it was the cause why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson remarked. "When I was in Saudi I think I was in each gathering before the Euros."

"Timing, with all things in looking back, yes - possibly I would have made different decisions."

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

Emotional Struggles

"Honestly speaking, over the past few years I have had various tough moments. It was similar to a parting when I left Liverpool."

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

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

England Experience

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 feels he still has plenty to offer on the pitch.

"The crucial people are the manager, the backroom staff and the players and what they believe," said Henderson.

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