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

The veteran midfielder faced criticism for departing Liverpool in 2023 to sign with Al-Ettifaq in a nation where LGBTQ+ relationships are illegal.

Henderson had formerly been a vocal champion of LGBTQ+ rights and apologized for letting down or upsetting members in the community when he exited Saudi Arabia to join Ajax six months later.

International 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 believe it was the reason why I was excluded from the Euros," Henderson commented. "While I was in Saudi I think I was in each gathering prior to the Euros."

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

"However at the moment that's how I felt and the decision I made was for numerous reasons and I alone know those reasons."

Personal Struggles

"Honestly speaking, over the past couple of years I have had various tough moments. It felt like a separation when I left Liverpool."

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

"But all I've ever sought to do is the correct thing."

England Experience

Henderson has won 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 a lot to contribute on the pitch.

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

"Inquire with them what they feel, if I am a supporter when I am here. I doubt one of the best managers in Europe would be selecting me just to do that."