Since joining the Saudi club in July, Henderson has been a vocal ally of the LGBTQ+ community.

Due to Saudi Arabia’s ban on same-sex sexual activity, his move has been criticized by some LGBTQ+ campaigners.

Henderson told the Athletic, “I never intended to hurt anyone. I wanted to help causes and communities.”

I can be subject to a lot of criticism and negativity around me, and that was difficult for me to handle. The fact that people criticized me and said I had turned my back on them hurt me a lot. I do care about different causes, and I’m involved in different communities.

I apologize for making them feel that way. But I haven’t changed as a person.

In November 2021, the 33-year-old wrote a long piece in the Liverpool matchday programme supporting Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign.

As a result of Henderson’s Saudi move, he has reunited with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard, who in July was appointed manager of Al-Ettifaq.

‘I’ve gone above and beyond to help [the LGBTQ+ community]. I’ve worn the laces. I’ve worn the armband. I’ve spoken to people in that community to try to use my profile to help them. That’s all I’ve tried to do.” Henderson said.

I feel hurt when I hear things like, ‘You’ve turned your back on us.’ I have family and friends in the LGBTQ+ community.

Henderson said he would not rule out wearing rainbow laces in Saudi Arabia, saying the gesture aligns with his values, but he does not want to disrespect anyone.

Al-Ettifaq released a welcome video on social media with a montage of Henderson’s career, but it appeared that his rainbow armband had been greyed out.

It is only positive to have someone with those views and values in Saudi Arabia.”