‘It’s not nice, your own fans’ – Jordan Henderson reacts to booing from England supporters but insists jeers ‘won’t change who I am’ after controversial Saudi Arabia transfer

The former Liverpool captain completed a transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq during the summer window, with the 33-year-old attracting criticism for heading to the Middle East after previously speaking out against controversial laws in the region.

Henderson was, after taking the armband for England in their friendly date with Australia, booed by sections of the home support at Wembley as he was substituted in a 1-0 win, but stands by his decision to make a move that has angered some.

He has said: "Everybody has got their own opinion. I love playing for England, I have done for many years, that's why I'm still here. I still want to play for England for as long as I possibly can and give everything for the team, for my country. It's not nice, your own fans, if they were booing. But listen, people have got their own opinions. Whenever I bump into anyone on the street it's always been positive stuff and nice things said. But listen, it won't change who I am and what I do for this team and for my country. I give absolutely everything every time.”

When pressed further on the reasons for the terrace taunts, experienced midfielder Henderson added: “Yeah, so… if people want to boo if I'm playing in a different country, that's fine. Like I said, everyone is going to have an opinion over when I'm playing over in Saudi. I've spoken in the past about the reasons for that. Whether people believe us or not is up to them. But when I'm here with England, it doesn't change anything. I give absolutely everything. Of course it's disappointing, but it won't change what I do here. I want to keep playing and keep fighting and help the team become successful.”

England will be back in action on Tuesday when playing host to Italy, with Gareth Southgate’s side looking to book their place at next summer’s European Championships in Germany.