Liverpool’s supporters’ board has condemned Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia and the “hurt and division” it has caused.
Henderson’s decision to join former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard at Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq has come in for heavy criticism ever since news of a possible transfer emerged earlier this month.
The 33-year-old has been a long-time ally for the LGBTQI+ community and one of the most high-profile players to have taken part in Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, wearing a rainbow-embellished captain’s armband in the past.
Being homosexual or transgender in Saudi Arabia is illegal, while anyone who identifies themselves as LGBTQI+ can be subjected to severe penalties.
Liverpool’s supporters’ board, which was founded in 2022 and is made up of 16 members including Paul Amann, Kop Outs chairperson and Jo Goodall, chair of Liverpool’s women’s supporters’ club, say they are “very disappointed” by the now former captain’s decision to move to the Gulf state.
“Jordan Henderson was a true captain and true leader for Liverpool on and off the pitch,” a statement read. “We know he did much to promote inclusion on and off the pitch. He stood out as a principled footballer.
“We are therefore very disappointed by his decision…
