Henderson’s Saudi move a ‘slap in the face’ – Jake Daniels،
Jake Daniels, the only openly gay professional footballer in English football, has described Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia as a “slap in the face” after the midfielder’s previous work in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
Daniels, a striker for Blackpool in England’s League One, spoke to the BBC about Henderson’s transfer, noting that the former Liverpool player sent him a message of support when he was released in May 2022.
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“He was supportive and said, ‘We’re proud of what you did,’” Daniels said.
“Seeing him move to Saudi Arabia, it’s kind of like it really slaps me in the face.
“But I guess money pays well, and money must mean more to people.”
Homosexuality is criminalized in Saudi Arabia, while human rights organization Amnesty International has described the Gulf country’s human rights record as “appalling”.
Henderson was heavily criticized for his £13 million ($16.3 million) move to Al Ettifaq, where he plays under former teammate Steven Gerrard, with England manager Gareth Southgate saying the disapproval was ” understandable”.
In an interview with The Athletic responding to criticism in September, Henderson said he too could understand the “frustration” and “anger” within the LGBTQ+ community following his decision.
“All I can say is I’m sorry they feel that way,” the 33-year-old added.
“My intention was never to hurt anyone. My intention was always to help causes and communities where I felt they had asked for my help.
“When I made this decision, I tried to look at it as if, without going there myself, we could all bury our heads in the sand and criticize different cultures and different countries from afar. But nothing “It’s impossible. It’s going to happen. Nothing’s going to change.
Daniels said the decision to retire was “the best thing I ever did” and that he is playing “better” as a result.
The 18-year-old added that he hopes to see more English players come forward, particularly at the highest level.
“I would like to see another top footballer come out as gay,” he said.
“Premier League players obviously have a lot more pressure on them and so much more attention on them, but I just think getting more footballers out would be the start.”
