TOUGH ROAD BACK: CAN HENDERSON RESTORE HIS LIVERPOOL LEGACY?

Liverpool’s preseason drama is THE UNCERTAIN FUTURE OF JORDAN HENDERSON.

A VARIETY OF EMOTIONS.
Although it wasn’t quite flight tracking as we have recently come to know it from reds, it feels even more dramatic. Jordan Henderson’s inclusion in Liverpool’s preseason training program was confirmed at the same time that it was announced that Fabinho wouldn’t be traveling to Germany. Fans’ reactions to this ranged from relief to outright rage, on the whole. Regardless of how you look at it, the captain’s reputation has suffered as a result of this entire saga, and even if he stays at Anfield, it will damage him in the eyes of many. However, this does not imply that redemption is not possible.

DISCUSSIONS AND REACTIONS.
As of right now, it appears that talks between Al-Ettifaq and Liverpool are still ongoing, but anything is possible. According to reports, Henderson and the Saudi club have reached an agreement that will see his salary significantly increased for up to three years. Some people’s reactions have been extreme, with harsh judgments being made, while others have expressed surprise and an understanding for the decision in light of issues unrelated to football. History, however, should teach us that a Liverpool captain’s request to leave isn’t always the end-all and be-all.

EXPERIENCES FROM THE PAST.
After Liverpool’s victory in Istanbul, many people decided to forget about the Steven Gerrard to Chelsea drama that dominated the summer, including the then-captain’s transfer request. It’s always unfair to compare the two directly on many levels, but it does demonstrate that Henderson can find redemption if he puts his head down, works hard, and contributes to the team. Many people will dismiss that idea for a variety of reasons, but football is known for its short-term memory, and given how the summer is progressing, a new drama won’t be far behind.

CRITICISM AND CONTROVERSY
Some people can understand why the captain won’t have a way to get home. In addition to his unwavering support for the NHS and other causes off the field, some fan groups have been outspoken in their criticism of the former Sunderland player. One podcaster recently suggested that this illustrates the fact that Henderson’s support “clearly only goes up to certain point” in reference to Saudi Arabia’s human rights issues. Although it has been argued that it is unfair to combine politics and football, Henderson was aware that there would be objections and queries after weighing all the factors.

THE PATH Ahead.

Nothing is certain, and by the beginning of the following week, there could very well have been an agreement between the two clubs or word that the captain would be staying at Anfield. Every sports media outlet will want to interview Liverpool’s current number 14 and question him further about a proposed or actual transfer, regardless of the outcome. It would be interesting to pay a penny for his teammates’ opinions if he decides to stay at Anfield. But in the eyes of the audience, there will at most be work to be done. If the skipper stays, it will be a difficult journey back, but it is not insurmountable.