Angry Jordan Henderson slams accusations about his role in England squad

Jordan Henderson has slammed the idea that he is in the England squad just to be a “cheerleader.”

England boss Thomas Tuchel caused a major shock by recalling 35-year-old Henderson into his first squad - and has stuck with him ever since. But it has brought accusations that he is only in the England set-up because he is a good character to have around the dressing room rather than what he brings to the pitch.

But Henderson, now back in the Premier League with Brentford, insists he is in on merit and has also set his sights on going to next summer’s World Cup. Former Liverpool captain Henderson said: “I don’t think I need to address it, to be fair. I have shown what I can do for England over the years. I am still playing at a high level.

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“Outside, people can think what they want. Media or whoever. The most important people are the manager, the coaching staff and the players and what they think. Ask them, what they think, if I am a cheerleader when I am here. I don’t think one of the best managers in Europe would be choosing me just to do that.

“I am here to perform, whether that is in training every day, whether that is when I am on the pitch. My main job is to be performing for the team and helping the team. All the other stuff is just to be myself.”

Henderson’s career took a major dip when he quit Liverpool to go to the Saudi Pro League and then went to Ajax six months later to try and win back his place for the Euros.

Ultimately, Henderson missed out on the Euros but he still wants to play for England next summer when he will be 36 at the World Cup. Henderson admits he might have done things differently if he had his time again but does not think it cost him a place at the Euros.

He added: “When I was in Saudi I think I was in every camp prior to the Euros. So I don’t think it was a reason. Timing. . . In hindsight, maybe I would have made different decisions.

“But at the time that is how I felt and the decision I made was for many different reasons and only I know the reasons and in the end, I tried to do the right thing.

“Obviously, I want to play for England for as long as I can. And coming back, was it in the back of my mind? Possibly, but I was also in the England squad when I was at Ajax, so I knew I could still play at Ajax and be in the England squad and be ready at a good enough level.

“I suppose it was more of a decision for me to be back in the Premier League. I missed the atmospheres, the environment, for me it’s the best league so to have the opportunity to come back was the reason I did it.”

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