Jordan Henderson, the experienced midfielder for Ajax, showed his dedication to England by driving for seven hours and covering 400 miles in a minibus with his family to watch England`s Euro 2024 final in Berlin. This happened after coach Gareth Southgate didn`t select him for the team.
Despite this setback, Henderson, who playfully called himself “Van Henderson” for the long family trip, is now focused on the future. Under the guidance of new manager Thomas Tuchel, he is determined to help England succeed in next year`s World Cup.
Henderson, a former captain of Liverpool, recently ended his international absence of 16 months. He made a brief appearance in England`s 2-0 win against Albania at Wembley in a qualifying match.
Tuchel values Henderson`s extensive experience gained throughout the qualifying rounds, emphasizing his strong commitment to England.
Henderson proved this commitment by traveling from Ajax`s pre-season training camp in Amsterdam to Berlin. He wanted to be there to watch England`s narrow 2-1 defeat against Spain in July.
Henderson, 34, had played in six Euro qualifying matches for Southgate. However, he was initially left out of the squad after his controversial move to play football in Saudi Arabia.
Talking about his decision to support his teammates at the Olympic Stadium, Henderson explained that he only knew he could go at the last minute due to training schedules.
“When I found out I could go, all flights were booked. There were no options from England or Amsterdam.”
“So, I checked the distance and rented a minibus for my family and kids. We drove for seven hours to get there.”
“I felt connected to the qualifying journey. I had been part of every squad leading up to the Euros.”
“I was watching the game on TV, which was tough. I just wanted the team to play well and win.”
“Unfortunately, things didn`t go our way. But I was glad I went to watch them in person. I felt I needed to be there.”
Many England fans who were also traveling to Germany were surprised and amused to see Henderson and his family at service stations along the way.
He added, “Whenever we stopped for restrooms or at gas stations, it was funny to see some of the fans.”
“It was nice to see their support, but of course, I would have preferred to be playing with the team.”
Despite a slight setback in January when Ajax considered selling him to Monaco for financial reasons, Henderson has had a good season with the club.
His positive influence has also helped Ajax to lead the Eredivisie by six points.
While some England fans were critical about Henderson`s return, Tuchel saw it as a smart decision, as the team needed his leadership during the tournament in Germany.
Did Henderson worry about his international career being over? He responded, “Not really, or I would have retired already.”
“I was disappointed last summer, but I feel physically fit and never wanted to give up on playing for England. Deep down, I always hoped to return.”
“Whether I’d get another chance wasn`t up to me, but thankfully, I focused, worked hard, and did the right things.”
“I’ve had a strong season with Ajax this year, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be back.”
“From my first appearance for England until now, my commitment has always been clear.”
“I’ve always aimed to give my all every time I play for my country, and that will always be the case.”
“While experience is important on the field, it’s also important to have young talent coming through. We have a good mix in this squad.”
Tuchel mentioned before Friday’s game that communication was lacking among the England team in Germany.
Liverpool players know that Henderson is known for his constant communication on the pitch.
Hoping to earn his 83rd cap against Latvia at Wembley on Monday, he added, “Communication isn’t just one person`s job.”
“You need five or six players constantly talking on the field. The more players communicate, the better the team performs.”
