Jordan Henderson Faces Decision Over Saudi Arabian Move as Steven Gerrard Chases Liverpool Skipper
Key Highlights :
Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson is the subject of interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, managed by Reds legend Steven Gerrard, with the Anfield hero previously hailing the midfielder as "a cog-like" player who is "obviously going to be a Premier League winner".
The 30-year-old faces a crucial decision over his future with Gerrard looking to tempt him away from Merseyside with a mammoth offer that could more than double his current £200,000-a-week wages. The Reds have yet to receive a bid but one is expected in the coming days, which could lead to talks between the player and Jurgen Klopp.
Gerrard previously praised Henderson’s power and fitness, claiming: “Some players play for themselves, Jordan does the dirty running, grappling for second balls, 12 or 13km Saturday and Wednesday, again and again. Teams can't function at Liverpool's level without a cog-like Jordan Henderson. He's obviously going to be a Premier League winner. I look at him and think: good for you.”
The midfielder has been a regular in the Reds team during their trophy-laden period, lifting the Premier League and Champions League trophies aloft. However, Liverpool have just undergone a huge rebuild in his position with James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all allowed to leave, whilst Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai have come in.
That will add to the competition for places with Fabinho, Harvey Elliott and Thiago also on the books at Anfield, which could limit Henderson’s minutes and could be a factor in his decision.
The move to Saudi Arabia has become increasingly attractive to big names in recent months, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Ruben Neves among those to leave the Premier League.
Henderson may also have to consider how the move would affect his England career with the Euros this summer.
The midfielder is a key figure in Gareth Southgate’s plans and has captained the Three Lions on multiple occasions. However, a move to Saudi Arabia could see his minutes reduced and potentially hamper his chances of featuring for his country this summer.
Henderson is now facing a decision that could shape the rest of his career, with Gerrard hoping his affection for the player will be enough to tempt him away from Merseyside.
