In a significant move for the England men's football team, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has publicly backed Thomas Tuchel's decision to recall Jordan Henderson to the squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. This marks a notable return for Henderson, who has not featured for the national side since November 2023 when he was still with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq.
Now at Ajax, where he has made 51 appearances since joining in January 2024, Henderson’s reintegration into Tuchel’s squad is seen as a move that could bolster the team's leadership both on and off the field. With Henderson turning 35 this June, expectations were that his international career might be winding down. However, his inclusion in the latest squad took many by surprise and has been met with support from teammates.
Pickford, England’s first-choice goalkeeper and a long-time teammate of Henderson, elaborated on the significance of having the veteran midfielder back in the fold, highlighting his winning mentality and leadership skills. “His desire to want to win and what he has won and achieved is driven by himself,” Pickford stated, emphasizing the qualities that Henderson brings to the team. “He’s a winner and a big leader. I think bringing Hendo back in is great for the squad.”
Picked has a point; Henderson’s experience is undoubtedly invaluable. He served as the vice-captain during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where England reached the semi-finals. Furthermore, his leadership was missed during the Euro 2024, where England lost to Spain in the final. “Jords is a great lad and respected by all the players and the staff,” Pickford noted, hinting at the camaraderie and respect Henderson commands in the locker room. “I don’t think we will ever know if he was a miss as we got to the final, but we have a new manager who has brought him in, and I know how much of a leader he is.”
On the topic of leadership, Pickford also praised another addition to Tuchel's first squad, Newcastle defender Dan Burn, who is 32 years old. He acknowledged that having multiple leaders within the team can only enhance the squad's performance. “The more leaders you have in the team, the more success they will bring,” he said, echoing a belief that experienced players drive standards both on and off the pitch.
Tuchel himself has a clear vision for the team he is building and provided insight into what Henderson means to this new setup. “Jordan is a serial winner,” he stated. “He’s captain of Ajax. What he brings to every team is leadership, character, energy and personality. He makes sure everyone lives by the standards.”
Looking ahead, England will host Albania at Wembley on March 21, 2025, marking Tuchel's debut as manager. This match carries significant weight, not just for the three points in World Cup qualifying but also for how the team responds to new leadership. With players like Henderson and Burn now part of the mix, there is optimism about the future trajectory of the English side.
The inclusion of Henderson, particularly after his eventful transition to football in the Middle East, speaks volumes about the changing dynamics in English football. Henderson’s journey began with great pomp at Liverpool, where he lifted the Premier League trophy in 2020, and later moved to Al-Ettifaq in summer 2023, a transfer that stirred considerable debate among fans and pundits alike. Just six months later, his move to Ajax has revitalized his career, showcasing how adaptability can lead to new opportunities.
For the English team, the World Cup qualifiers have never been more critical, and the mindset of the players will be just as important as their technical skills. With experienced elements now returning to the squad, particularly Henderson, England aims to translate past performances into tangible success on the international stage. Pickford’s endorsement will likely resonate well among supporters eager for a strong showing in the upcoming matches.
As the players prepare to don the national colors once again, the hope for resilience and a fighting spirit rises. For Henderson, this chance is about redemption and proving that his presence can once again inspire a generation of English footballers. The upcoming fixtures could very well set the tone for England's journey in the World Cup as they seek to lift glory from years long gone. Indeed, with multiple leaders like Henderson in the squad, the pathway to success looks promising.
