Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has branded Mohamed Salah as "the best player in the world" - and outlined his role in convincing Gini Wijnaldum to join him at Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
After 12 years as a Liverpool player - eight of which were as captain - the 33-year-old Henderson decided to call it quits and move to Saudi Arabia over the summer. In an interview ahead of this month's international break, he cited the reason being not feeling 'wanted' by anyone at Anfield as Jurgen Klopp rebuilt his midfield department.
Henderson's transfer in particular was also met with disappointment in some quarters, due to his own personal backing of LGBTQ+ groups during his time in the Premier League. It is illegal to be involved in a same-sex relationship in Saudi Arabia.
As captain of his new club Al-Ettifaq, the ex-Reds skipper says he is intent on helping to build the project from the ground up.
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"The fans have been incredible since coming here to the club," he told the Saudi Sports Company - the league's domestic broadcaster. "Also the people outside of the club, I've been welcomed and been well received. When I'm walking off the pitch they're clapping so that's nice. I feel welcomed and hopefully I can help this team to improve."
A major draw of the SPL has been their ability to fund lucrative landmark transfers and reward players with eye-watering contracts. Henderson himself is reported to be earning near £700,000 per week, although more conservative estimates have claimed it is nearer to £350,000.
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