Jordan Henderson rainbow armband, laces: Why fans are angry at Al Ettifaq's announcement video featuring Liverpool star
Liverpool have confirmed a £12m/$15.6m transfer deal to sell captain Jordan Henderson to Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq.
The England international joins the expanding list of star names heading to the Middle East, after 12 seasons at Anfield, including eight as first team captain.
The move sees Henderson reunite with his former Reds teammate Steven Gerrard, following his appointment as Al Ettifaq head coach, but the switch has been dominated by controversy for the veteran midfielder.
Henderson has been criticised by some for making the move based on his previous support for the LGBTQI+ community, his commitment to the Rainbow Laces campaign in Premier League action and the One Love armband initiative on England duty, with Saudi Arabia facing global criticism for their human rights record and LGBTQI+ legislation.
The biggest transfers to the Saudi Pro League so far
Henderson's decision to swap the Premier League for the Saudi Pro League has placed him at the centre of a debate over the role of footballers as ambassadors for social and political causes.
During his time as leader of Liverpool, and previously England, Henderson frequently spoke out in support of the LGBTQI+ community and voiced his concern over fans feeling unsafe attending games, including interacting with supporters on social media.
Hi Joe great to hear you enjoyed the game as you should. No one should be afraid to go and support their club or country because football is for everyone no matter what. Thanks for your support, enjoy the rest of the Euros.
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