Jordan Henderson 'has big LGBTQ+ problem' after leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia
Jordan Henderson has opted to leave Liverpool for Saudi Arabia
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Jamie Carragher believes Jordan Henderson has a 'big problem' to deal with in the wake of the midfielder's decision to leave Liverpool for Saudi Arabia.
The England international has moved to Al-Ettifaq, despite previously being a big supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Henderson was nominated for 'Football Ally' at the LGBT+ Awards in 2021.
And he also previously sent a supportive tweet to Liverpool fan Keith Spooner during the Rainbow Laces campaign, too.
Liverpool hero Jordan Henderson has long been an ally of the LGBTQ+ community
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With same-sex relationships illegal in Saudi, some believe Henderson has abandoned his principles for the lucrative money on offer.
The former Sunderland star is set to earn a massive £700,000-a-week during his time in the Middle East.
And Carragher, writing for the Daily Telegraph, has claimed Henderson now has a 'big problem'.
"Henderson has a big problem to deal with because of his previous remarks in support of the LGBTQ+ community," he wrote.
"I fully understand that criticism and it is justified.
"Jordan was heralded on the back of his speaking out, so he has difficult questions to answer, and the critical reaction towards him will have a negative impact moving forward for those communities who cherish support from high-profile figures.
"When other footballers hear the criticism directed at him, they will not say 'I can’t go to Saudi'.
"They will be told by their advisors to keep their mouth shut in case they move there in future, thus avoiding accusations of hypocrisy.
"That will equate to buying silence – a grave impact of sportswashing."
Henderson confirmed he'd be leaving Liverpool on Wednesday.
And, shortly after, Liverpool LGBTQ+ group Kop Outs criticised the veteran for his decision.
"So Henderson, what was it about the multimillion pound contract that first drew you away from your commitment to human rights?" the statement read.
"Gerrard's participation in this sportswashing is particularly galling given his previous support for LA Galaxy teammate Robbie Rogers.
"Any other former teammates should beware.
"We hope that Jordan Henderson and Steven Gerrard don't have to personally experience the harsh reality faced by LGBT+ people and real advocates for human rights.
"We question the decision of @LFC to accept money from such a regime.
"We have long campaigned for Liverpool to resist investment from countries with poor human rights records.
"It is also a concern as to the due diligence beyond the reputational damage such a deal inflicts."
A host of top footballers are moving to Saudi this summer.
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Liverpool hero Jamie Carragher has fired a warning to Jordan Henderson after Saudi Arabia move
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As well as Henderson the likes of Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly and Riyad Mahrez have all jumped ship to the Middle East.