Jordan Henderson’s Saudi Arabia move: It’s not his problem, it’s ours

Not too pleased, but not too surprised. That’s how I felt when Liverpool club captain Jordan Henderson neared the completion of a move to Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ettifaq, reportedly more than tripling his wages in the process. 

The England star’s former supporters have accused him of rank hypocrisy for joining the raft of top stars moving to the Saudi Pro League, thanks to his previous stance on LGBT+ issues.

It’s Not Jordan Henderson’s Problem

While I completely see their point, and don’t disagree that there’s hypocrisy at play, I don’t think it’s Jordan Henderson’s problem. As a society, it’s our own fault for putting their faith in a fallible man who never asked to be anyone’s idol or role model.

I’m not here to defend Saudi Arabia, but if we want a stand to be taken against that despotic regime, we should challenge those who have the power to change things, like politicians, not expect the world from celebrities who will almost always put fame and fortune ahead of principles. 

The 33-year-old, in the twilight of his footballing career, looks set to do what many before him and many after him will do, taking the money and adjusting his personal morals to suit the enviable pay packet that can secure financial security for his family for multiple generations.

Henderson’s History of Support Should Still Count For Something

Hendo has been particularly supportive of the LGBT+ community and often went the extra mile in speaking out when too many of his colleagues did little more than the required photo opportunities around Pride.  Personally, I think his history of support should still count for something. Just because he’s accepted a life-changing amount of money doesn’t necessarily mean he no longer cares about the community. 

He can of course still be an ally, he’ll just be a much richer one now, and maybe he’ll even use some of his new-found riches to back good causes financially. 

Kop Outs Condemn Move

However, Kop Outs, the Reds’ official LGBT+ fan group released a statement condemning the move, writing: ‘Kop Outs have valued the allyship shown by Jordan Henderson.  We are appalled and concerned that anyone might consider working for a sportswashing operation for a regime where women & LGBT+ people are oppressed.

We hope that Jordan Henderson proves to be a man of his word and stays true to the values of our club, which so far he has been an absolute embodiment of.’ Their disappointment is palpable, and in many ways understandable, but I just don’t see why Jordan Henderson should be the one to make a stand against Saudi Arabia. 

Others Have Followed The Money Too

After all, he’s hardly the first. Fellow Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard accepted