Jordan Henderson spotted filming goodbye message to Liverpool fans

An end to an era for Liverpool captain, Jordan Henderson it would seem as the former Sunderland star was spotted filming goodbye message confirming his exit from the club.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was seen filming an emotional ‘goodbye video’ at Anfield on Tuesday afternoon, fueling speculation of his imminent departure to Saudi Arabia. The 33-year-old midfielder is reportedly on the verge of joining Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq in a deal worth a staggering £10.5 million.

Henderson’s move to the Middle East will reunite him with a familiar face, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who recently took over as the manager of Al Ettifaq. The England international is expected to sign a contract that will see his wages quadruple to an astonishing £700,000-a-week, bringing an end to his remarkable 12-year career with the Merseyside club.

However, this much-anticipated transfer comes with its share of controversy due to the Saudi government’s stringent laws surrounding homosexuality. Henderson, who has been widely regarded as one of football’s most prominent allies for the LGBT+ community, is now on the verge of moving to a country where being homosexual or transgender remains illegal.

Former Liverpool midfielder Graeme Souness, known for his strong support of the LGBT+ community, expressed concern that Henderson’s move could tarnish his legacy. “As an ally of the LGBTQ+ community and a supporter of Rainbow Laces – and then he ends up going to Saudi, I think without a doubt that will damage his legacy,” Souness told Sky Bet.

Souness, who attended Brighton Pride in 2019, has been vocal about the homophobia that persists within football. He noted that football clubs can be unwelcoming spaces both in the locker room and in the stands.

The former midfielder acknowledged the need for change in professional football, saying,

“Football is still an extremely homophobic business to be in, and that has to change. It’s 2019. In the last 20-odd years, this community has made great strides forward.”

Henderson’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia has sparked discussions about the ethical implications of playing in a country with laws that conflict with his stance as an ally for the LGBTQ+ community.

Fans and critics alike await the player’s official statement regarding the move and how he intends to reconcile his commitment to inclusivity with the cultural context of his new club.