Gareth Southgate Defends the Call-Up of Al-Ettifaq’s Jordan Henderson in a Boost for the Saudi Pro League
With major leagues taking a break for the upcoming fortnight of international action, England manager Gareth Southgate has called up Al-Ettifaq midfielder Jordan Henderson to the Three Lions’ friendly match at home to Australia and UEFA EURO Qualifier at home to Italy.
His continued selection of Henderson has raised questions in England because Southgate has overlooked some of the names plying their trade in the Premier League.
In defending his stance, Southgate has indicated that his staff have monitored Henderson closely and believe that he is in fantastic shape and his quality has not suffered in any way since he moved to the Saudi Pro League.
By defending Henderson, Gareth Southgate is making a statement about the Soud Pro League by extension. With internationals like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Mane, the league’s profile is burgeoning into international football, giving it a major platform to further elevate its brand on the global stage.
