Henderson criticised by LGBTQ+ fans group for ‘positive’ Saudi interview

Jordan Henderson playing for Al-Ettifaq against Al-Hilal. He denied he was being paid £700,000 a week. Photograph: EPA

Jordan Henderson’s presence in Saudi Arabia could be “more harmful” to the local LGBTQ+ community, according to a leading gay rights group, after the England midfielder suggested his move to the country where homosexuality is illegal could be a “positive”.

Henderson, a high-profile supporter of LGBTQ+ rights when Liverpool captain, told the Athletic (£), in his first interview since his £12m move to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, that he has been hurt by the criticism he has received and that his views have not changed.