Jamie Carragher warns LGBTQ+ ‘ally’ Jordan Henderson he’ll face ‘criticism’ for Saudi Arabia move
Jamie Carragher warns LGBTQ+ ‘ally’ Jordan Henderson he will face ‘criticism’ if he moves to Saudi Arabia – where homosexuality is illegal – for £700,000 a week
Jamie Carragher believes Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is exposing himself to criticism if he accepts a big money contract to join Steven Gerrard in the Saudi Pro League.
Henderson is said to be on the verge of accepting an offer from Al-Ettifaq, paying him £700,000 a week for his services, under new manager and Liverpool legend Gerrard.
The 33-year-old is an outspoken supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, while homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia – and Carragher believes this will pose problems for Henderson when he moves to the country.
In response to a question from fans on Twitter, Carragher responded: “The money is hard to turn down, which is why hardly anyone has a great servant and player for Liverpool.
“He will be criticized because he has received a lot of praise for his stance on LGBTQ+ in the past.
Jamie Carragher tweeted that Jordan Henderson will be criticized for supporting gay rights
Carragher’s friend Steven Gerrard is now a manager at Al-Ettifaq, who want to sign Henderson
Henderson has previously been praised for his support for members of the LGBT+ community
Not a player in his prime, but another big statement to bring the Liverpool captain to the Saudi league. Also a good deal for Liverpool.’
Henderson was nominated for ‘Football Ally’ at the 2021 LGBT+ Awards after sending a supportive tweet to a Liverpool fan during the Rainbow Laces campaign and a statement of support to an openly queer England fan attending a game at Wembley.
Liverpool LGBT fan group Kop Outs has expressed concern that Henderson is now considering a move to Saudi Arabia, despite previously being described as an ally.
The group wrote, “Kop Outs have appreciated Jordan Henderson’s ally.
“We are shocked and concerned that anyone would consider working for a #sports washing operation for a regime that oppresses women and LGBT+ people and regularly tops death sentences?
Gerrard’s participation in this sportswashing is particularly annoying given his previous support for LA Galaxy teammate Robbie Rogers.
Liverpool LGBTQ+ fan group Kop Outs slammed Gerrard for taking the job in Saudi Arabia
‘If someone has made a fortune, should money entice him to work? Maybe they should ask themselves those questions.
“We hope that Jordan Henderson proves to be a man of his word and remains true to the values of our club, which he has been an absolute embodiment of until now.”
Looking to rejuvenate his midfield at Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp needs money to sign Southampton’s Romeo Lavia from Southampton – which would be boosted by the sale of Henderson.
The 33-year-old is also likely to see a reduction in match opportunities, with Liverpool reinvesting in their midfield as they attempt to return to the top four in the Premier League after finishing fourth last season.