Alan Shearer has sympathised with Jordan Henderson’s decision to leave Liverpool this summer for Saudi Arabia side Al-Ettifaq.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, the pundit claimed that the former Anfield captain had earned the right to move wherever he wanted having led Liverpool through an incredible period of success under Jurgen Klopp.
Henderson led Liverpool to the Premier League and UEFA Champions League as well as a domestic double in the 2021/22 season, with the midfielder also remaining a consistent performer for the Reds during his 12 years at the club.
Given the nature of Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia, the midfielder has, rightly, been subject to criticism from fans and pundits. Yet to Shearer, the midfielder has earnt his move.
The former Premier League striker said: “I don’t know him well but I know he is a great character, he seems a great lad to have in the dressing room and I would never question anything he chose to do.
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“When you look at it, he has the chance for generations of his family to protect and to help him, so I don’t think we can criticise him for that.”
Liverpool could regret letting Henderson leave this summer
Nobody could have predicted Henderson leaving Liverpool this summer, let alone to a club based in Saudi Arabia. Yet the Reds could soon regret the decision to allow their captain to leave.
With little midfield experience left in the squad, Henderson’s departure leaves a huge void in the team that will be hard to replace barring an incredible signing in the market.
For all the split opinions Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia has caused, an issue could emerge at Liverpool next season due to the midfielder’s absence.