Jordan Henderson traveled for seven hours, covering 400 miles in a minibus with his family to watch England`s Euro 2024 final in Berlin, even after being excluded from the squad by Gareth Southgate.
Now, the Ajax midfielder, playfully nicknamed “Van Henderson” after taking his family on this long journey, is determined to go all the way to next year`s World Cup under the guidance of new manager Thomas Tuchel.
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After a 16-month absence from international football, the former Liverpool captain made a return with a brief appearance in Friday’s 2-0 victory over Albania at Wembley in a qualifying match.
Tuchel values Henderson`s wealth of experience gained throughout the qualifiers, emphasizing his undeniable passion for England.
This dedication was evident when he undertook an impromptu journey from Amsterdam, where he was in pre-season training, to Berlin to witness England`s narrow 2-1 defeat against Spain in the Euro 2024 final in July.
Henderson, 34, had played in six Euro qualifying games under Southgate but was initially dropped from the squad following his controversial move to Saudi Arabia.
Reflecting on his decision to support his teammates at the Olympic Stadium, Henderson explained, “I wasn’t sure until the last minute if I could go due to training schedules.
“When I realized I was free, there were no flights available from England or Amsterdam.”
“So, I checked the distance and rented a minibus for my family and kids. We drove across, and it took seven hours.”
“I felt connected to the qualifying campaign, having been part of every squad leading up to the Euros.”
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“I watched the game on TV, which was tough, but I was rooting for the team to succeed and win.
“Although it didn`t go as hoped, I was glad I went to watch them in person. I felt I needed to be there.”
England fans traveling to Germany were surprised to encounter the Henderson family at service stations along the way.
He added, “When we stopped for restrooms or at gas stations, it was amusing to see some of the fans.”
“It was lovely to see their support, but naturally, I would have preferred to be with the team on the field.”
The seasoned midfielder has had a productive season with Ajax, despite a brief period in January when the club considered selling him to Monaco for wage savings.
However, his impact extends beyond the field, contributing positively to the club`s position at the top of the Eredivisie, six points ahead of rivals.
While some England supporters initially greeted Henderson’s return with skepticism, Tuchel`s decision was strategic, recognizing the team`s need for leadership in Germany.
Did Henderson worry about his international career ending? He responded, “Not really, or I would have retired by now.”
“I was disappointed last summer, but I maintained my physical fitness and never wanted to close the door on playing for England again. Deep down, I always hoped for a return.”
“Whether or not I received another opportunity wasn’t entirely in my hands, but thankfully, I focused on working hard and maintaining professionalism.”
"I’ve enjoyed a successful season with Ajax this year, and thankfully, I was given the chance to return to the England squad."
“From my debut cap to now, my dedication to England has been clear to everyone.”
“I have always aimed to give my absolute best every time I am here, and that commitment will never waver.”
“While experience is crucial across the team, it`s also vital to integrate young, emerging players, which we are doing effectively in this squad.”
As Tuchel highlighted before Friday’s match, communication was lacking among the England team in Germany.
And as Liverpool players know well, Henderson is known for his vocal presence on the pitch.
Looking forward to potentially earning his 83rd cap against Latvia at Wembley on Monday, he added, “Communication isn’t just one player`s responsibility.
"You need five or six players constantly communicating on the field. The more players talk, the better the team functions.”
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