England manager baffled by Henderson treatment

England manager Gareth Southgate was left in disbelief at the treatment received by former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson in the Three Lions’ recent friendly against  Australia. 

Henderson, who left Liverpool this summer to join Saudi Arabian club Al Etiffaq, which is currently being coached by former teammate and England international Steven Gerrard, was booed at every touch when the Three Lions hosted Australia in Wembley. 

Although England scrapped by with a 1-0 win over the Socceroos, manager Southgate was clearly displeased by the fans’ behaviour, calling the Wembley crowd out for their treatment of Henderson. 

Speaking after the match, Southgate said, “I really don’t understand it. He [Henderson] is a player who has won 79 caps for England. His commitment and what he has delivered for England is exceptional.” 

Southgate further explained Henderson’s importance to the team, saying, “His role within the group both on and off the pitch is phenomenally important.

“He is the one who took Jude Bellingham under his wing and is a role model for the group in his professionalism and approach to every part of his work.

“We didn’t have much experience and caps on the field so his influence before and during the game was hugely important. He helped other players get through the game.” 

The England manager finally admonished those who were unhappy with the Al Ettifaq midfielder, asking them to fix up before England play against Italy at the same venue, saying, “Some people decided to boo, I don’t understand what that is for. We play Italy here on Tuesday, let’s get behind this team.” 

Henderson is likely to play again when England hosts Italy for the first time since the Azzurri won the 2020 Euros at Wembley on Tuesday.