Jordan Henderson disagrees with the criticism he receives after his call-up for the England national team. The 35-year-old former Ajax player believes he still has a lot to offer and is not the ‘cheerleader’ of the team.
Henderson did not play for England for sixteen months, until he made his return to the English squad in March under the new national coach Thomas Tuchel as an Ajax player. The Brentford midfielder is also part of the English team this international period.
It was then suggested in the English media that Henderson was only in the squad because of his experience and leadership. But Henderson disagrees with that. “I have shown over the years what I can do for England and I am still playing at a high level,” he said in an interview with news agency Reuters .
“Outside the club, the media or anyone else can think what they want,” Henderson continued. “For me, the most important people are the coach, the technical staff and the players. Just ask them if I’m the cheerleader of the team. I don’t think one of the best managers in Europe would select me on that basis.”
“I’m here to perform. Whether that’s during training or when I’m on the field. My main task is to perform well and help the team.”
‘Had difficult moments’
Henderson returned to the Premier League this season after an absence of two years. In 2023 he left Liverpool for the Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq. That move was heavily criticized and his period in the Middle East lasted only six months.
“In hindsight, I might have made a different decision, but at the time it was the right choice for various reasons. I’m not going to lie about that,” Henderson reflected. “I have had difficult moments in recent years. It felt like a break when I left Liverpool.”
Ultimately Henderson decided to return to Europe: he played for Ajax from January 2024 until last summer. “That felt good. I enjoyed myself there. Ultimately, that period made me stronger.”