Liverpool's LGBT+ community is 'appalled and frightened' as Jordan Henderson considers a relocation to Saudi Arabia.
Jordan Henderson is apparently considering a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq, which has stunned a Liverpool LGBT+ fan organization that regards the Reds captain as an icon.
A Liverpool LGBT+ fan club has been left "appalled and concerned" by reports that captain Jordan Henderson is exploring a lucrative Saudi offer.
Henderson, 33, is said to have been offered a lucrative deal by Al-Ettifaq - the squad that Liverpool icon and ex-teammate Steven Gerrard just took over as manager - that will more than treble his weekly salary to £700,000. The two teams are now preparing to negotiate a deal, with Henderson valued at £10 million, prompting condemnation from LGBT+ organizations.
Being homosexual or transgender is still illegal in Saudi Arabia, and anyone who identifies as LGBT+ faces harsh punishments. The Saudi Pro League has signed a slew of big-name players for 2023, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, in what opponents claim is a continuation of the state's sport-washing attempts.
Henderson is one of the most visible Premier League players to advocate for LGBT+ individuals, proudly wearing the rainbow captain's armband on multiple occasions and participating in various anti-homophobia initiatives.
In reaction to transfer rumors, Kop Outs issued a statement on social media on Thursday, stating they hoped Henderson would "prove to be a man of his word" and reject the move. "Kop Outs have valued Jordan Henderson's allyship," the organization of LGBT+ Liverpool supporters began.
"We are appalled and concerned that anyone would consider working for a sportswashing operation for a regime that oppresses women and LGBT+ people and consistently tops the world death penalty table." (Steven) Gerrard's involvement in this sportswashing is especially infuriating given his earlier support for LA Galaxy teammate Robbie Rogers (who came out as gay in 2013).
"Should money tempt someone who has made a fortune to go to work?" Perhaps they should ask themselves such questions. We hope Jordan Henderson keeps his commitment and stays faithful to the principles of our club, which he has been an absolute embodiment of thus far."
In 2019, Henderson said of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign, "This campaign is important if there are still supporters out there who don't feel they can be themselves or, worse, have to hide who they are for fear of being abused or discriminated against."
"I'm a parent, a husband, a son, and a brother, and the thought that anyone I love and care about wouldn't feel safe or comfortable coming to watch me play if they were part of the LGBT community makes me wonder what kind of world we live in makes me wonder what kind of world we live in."
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