Jordan Henderson: ‘Damage is done’, say LGBTQ+ fans on Premier League return rumour
Sign up for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
LGBTQ+ fans have expressed their disappointment and skepticism over rumors that Jordan Henderson is seeking to return to the Premier League just six months after his controversial move to Saudi Arabia. The former Liverpool captain and England international made the transfer to Saudi Pro League team Al-Ettifaq for a reported fee of £13 million ($16.5 million), earning a weekly salary of around £350,000 ($445,000). However, the move was met with outcry and accusations of betrayal, as Henderson’s previous advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion clashed with Saudi Arabia’s poor human rights record and criminalization of queer individuals.
Throughout his career, Henderson had established himself as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in football, actively campaigning against discrimination and supporting initiatives such as Stonewall’s rainbow laces campaign. In stark contrast, Saudi Arabia remains one of the harshest places for queer individuals, lacking legal protections and imposing severe punishments, including death, for same-sex behavior.
Henderson’s decision to defend his move to Saudi Arabia further fueled criticism, with accusations that the nation is using football as a means of “sportswashing” its negative reputation. Now, reports suggest that Henderson is struggling with the heat and low attendance at games in Saudi Arabia, prompting his desire to return to the English Premier League.
However, LGBTQ+ fans are not impressed by Henderson’s potential return. Pride in Football co-chairperson and Three Lions Pride co-founder Joe White revealed that conversations with other LGBTQ+ fans reflected an atmosphere of indifference towards Henderson. Many expressed sentiments such as, “Oh dear, if only he knew what the circumstances might be like going out to Saudi Arabia before he went… oh wait, he could have just googled.” White emphasized that the damage has already been done, and Henderson has lost any legacy of allyship and proactive engagement with the LGBTQ+ community by moving to Saudi Arabia.
White also noted that there would be a significant level of skepticism from LGBTQ+ groups in engaging with Henderson in the future. He stated, “It will take a lot for him to get back to the standing he had, and I think there will be, rightfully, a lot of hesitancy from groups engaging with him again.” This hesitancy stems from Henderson’s interviews defending his move and suggesting that he could make a positive impact in Saudi Arabia, despite failing to address LGBTQ+ inclusion in a country that criminalizes and endangers queer individuals.
Social media platforms have also seen critical responses from fans, questioning Henderson’s supposed commitment to spreading LGBT+ acceptance in Saudi Arabia. One fan asked, “But what about Jordan Henderson spreading LGBT+ acceptance to Saudi, or was that just bulls**t?” Another expressed their disdain, stating, “If he comes back to English football and tries to say what an ally he is to the LGBT community, he can poke his rainbow laces up his a**e.”
In light of these discussions, White emphasized the importance of shifting the focus onto younger players who are actively coming through the ranks of football. He believes that supporting and promoting diversity and inclusion among the next generation of players is crucial, ensuring they feel comfortable addressing LGBTQ+ issues if they choose to do so. While Henderson may be nearing the end of his playing career, he should not be the sole focus when there are talented and engaged young players who can drive change within the sport.
In conclusion, LGBTQ+ fans are not convinced by rumors of Jordan Henderson’s potential return to the Premier League after his controversial move to Saudi Arabia. The damage caused by his decision and subsequent defense has led to skepticism and disappointment among the LGBTQ+ community. Henderson’s actions have undermined his previous advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion, leaving doubts about any future attempts to engage with the community. The focus should now shift towards supporting and empowering the next generation of players who can make a positive impact on diversity and inclusion in football.
Follow us on: Facebook for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
“LGBTQ+ fans”
