Jordan Henderson is confident there is “no reason” he cannot continue to represent England despite his controversial move to Saudi Arabia.
The former Liverpool captain called an end to a trophy-laden spell at Anfield to make a lucrative move to Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq last month.
Given the 33-year-old’s previous support for inclusivity in football, Henderson has faced a backlash from LGBTQ+ supporters’ groups for moving to a country where same-sex relationships are illegal.
On the pitch, doubt has been raised about the midfielder’s international career.
While Henderson is one of the more experienced members of the England squad, the Saudi Pro League does not offer the same level of competition as the Premier League or Champions League.
Gareth Southgate recently claimed it would be “stupid” to blindly overlook Henderson and the player is confident he will still be involved when the Three Lions play against Ukraine and Scotland next month.
“I’m focused on playing for Ettifaq and playing my best. If I’m doing that then there’s no reason why I can’t play for England, as the gaffer said,” he told Beanyman Sports.
“Obviously we spoke over the last few weeks about it because playing for England means a lot to me and I feel as though I can still bring a lot to the team as I have in the last few games in the World Cup.”
Of his decision to move to Saudi Arabia, Henderson said the chance to work with Gerrard again was a driving factor.
“Stevie was a big reason obviously why I came,” he added.
“To work with him and play under him.
“We need to be ready in the first week or so for the first game, but I’m sure we will be. We’ve had some good training sessions.
“So hopefully we can keep moving things in the right direction and definitely work together to try to make the team better and more successful.”
