England boss Gareth Southgate has jumped to the defence of Al-Ettifaq midfielder Jordan Henderson after he was booed by Three Lions fans during their 1-0 friendly win over Australia on Friday.
Gareth Southgate’s decision to continue selecting Jordan Henderson for England duty following his Saudi Arabia move has sparked plenty of criticism, and it was clear to see against Australia on Friday when Three Lions fans booed the ex-Liverpool captain.
Henderson, who has 79 caps for England, has featured eight times in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Ettifaq this term, but many fans believe that the standard of football he’s currently playing at, as well as the controversy surrounding the move, means he shouldn’t have a place in Southgate’s squad.
And those with that opinion made themselves heard when the midfielder was substituted after 62 minutes. Upon his exit for Kieran Trippier, a large section of Three Lions fans opted to jeer the former Sunderland man.
Southgate Responds To Henderson Boos
In his post-match press conference, Southgate quickly jumped to the defence of the 33-year-old and said: “I really don’t understand it. He’s a player, 79 caps for England, his commitment and what he’s delivered for England is exceptional.
“His role within the group on and off the pitch is phenomenally important. He’s the one that’s taken the likes of Bellingham under his wing. He’s a role model for the group in his approach to every part of his work.
“Some people decided to boo. I really don’t understand what that’s for. We play Italy here on Tuesday, come on let’s get behind this team. I know we weren’t at our best tonight, but we made a lot of changes.
“This is a team that are delivering a lot and they all deserve every bit of support.
“We’re reviewing all of the [Henderson] games. I think he knitted and held things together quite a bit today. You need leadership, we didn’t have a lot of caps on the field so Hendo’s influence before the game, during the game was hugely important and he helped other players get through the game.
“I know what’s created it and I know why it has happened, but it defies logic to me that you would give a player who is playing and putting his heart and soul into playing for England… why boo him?
“How is that going to help him or help the team?”
😠 Gareth Southgate wasn’t happy with England fans booing Jordan Henderson
📺 https://t.co/wEfYtZUcxR#engaus | #football pic.twitter.com/TPpahPVcYv
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) October 14, 2023
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