‘Blocking the Way’ – Liverpool Legend Questions Jordan Henderson’s England Inclusion

What Happened With Jordan Henderson and England?

Jordan Henderson’s name has long been synonymous with England’s midfield. From his days as Liverpool captain, lifting both the Premier League and Champions League, to his 84 caps for the national side, the midfielder has been a dependable figure for club and country. But in 2025, his role in the Three Lions setup is coming under increasing scrutiny.

Despite turbulence at club level—moving from Liverpool to Saudi Arabia, struggling at Al-Ettifaq, bouncing to Ajax, and then joining Brentford—Henderson continues to be included in Thomas Tuchel’s England squads. The decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Some argue his experience is invaluable; others believe it comes at the expense of younger talent.

One voice that has weighed in firmly is Liverpool legend Emile Heskey, who has questioned whether Henderson’s presence is now “blocking the way” for the next generation of English midfielders.

Henderson’s Journey: From Anfield Icon to England Veteran

To understand the controversy, it’s worth retracing Henderson’s career path. At Liverpool, he wasn’t always the fan favorite. Early on, many questioned whether he had the technical ability to succeed at the highest level. Yet through determination, leadership, and relentless work ethic, he silenced critics.

By the time he left Anfield, Henderson had won every major club trophy: Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. His leadership during the 2019–20 title-winning campaign, in particular, cemented his legacy.

But leaving Liverpool marked a turning point. His move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 raised eyebrows, not only for the controversial league switch but also because many felt he still had something to offer in Europe. The stint at Al-Ettifaq was short-lived and disappointing. Ajax provided a chance at redemption, but that too fizzled quickly. Now at Brentford, he is more a steady hand than a game-changer.

All of which begs the question: should a player whose club career has been in decline for several years still be starting—or even sitting—in England’s midfield?

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The Bigger Picture: Age, Experience, and the Next Generation

Henderson is 35. His 84 caps bring with them leadership and composure, qualities few would deny. But the England squad is brimming with young talent. Adam Wharton, the 21-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder, is one such name. Already impressing in the Premier League with his intelligence and energy, Wharton has only one England cap to his name.

For Heskey, this is the crux of the issue. “Looking at Henderson, he has experience, but maybe he is blocking the way for youngsters who can be given a chance to play and make an England first team appearance,” Heskey told Daily Star Sport with Mr Gamble.

It’s a sentiment that echoes among many England supporters. They see Henderson’s continued inclusion not as a reflection of form but as a safety net for Tuchel.

What Emile Heskey Said About Henderson

Heskey’s comments carry weight, not only because of his Liverpool connections but also because he has lived the England experience. He knows the pressure of international football and the importance of balancing experience with opportunity.

In his view, Tuchel faces a challenge: “It is a challenge Tuchel has to get the players to replicate their club form and as a group of players, perform with freedom and express themselves.”

That word—freedom—feels telling. Henderson, while reliable, is not the kind of player who inspires expressive, attacking football. He is more functional than flamboyant. The concern is that by leaning on Henderson, England may be stifling the creativity and dynamism of younger midfielders eager to make their mark.

Blocking the Way: A Real Debate in England’s Midfield

The phrase “blocking the way” is provocative, but it captures the tension perfectly. England’s midfield is one of the most competitive areas of the squad. Declan Rice is the undisputed anchor. Jude Bellingham is already one of the best players in the world. Beyond them, there are players like Conor Gallagher, James Ward-Prowse, and youngsters like Wharton waiting in line.

In that context, every squad spot matters. Keeping Henderson in the mix may offer stability, but it also reduces opportunities for emerging talents to gain experience at international level.

And international experience isn’t just about playing time—it’s about being in camp, training alongside elite players, and learning the rhythm of tournament football. By holding onto veterans longer than necessary, national teams risk delaying the development of their future core.

Tuchel’s Perspective: Why Pick Henderson?

Of course, Tuchel isn’t selecting Henderson out of nostalgia. For managers, experience is priceless, especially in international football where preparation time is limited. Henderson brings leadership, tactical discipline, and a deep understanding of the game.

Tuchel may also view him as a bridge figure—a player who can help younger stars adapt to the demands of international football. In high-pressure qualifiers or tournament knockouts, Henderson’s composure could be invaluable.

And let’s not forget: managers are judged on results, not on how many youngsters they blood into the squad. If Henderson helps England secure vital points in World Cup qualifiers, Tuchel’s decision will be vindicated.

Did You Know? Henderson’s England Legacy

Henderson has been part of England squads under multiple managers—Roy Hodgson, Sam Allardyce, Gareth Southgate, and now Thomas Tuchel. His longevity is remarkable. While not always a guaranteed starter, he has been trusted to play roles ranging from box-to-box runner to deep-lying playmaker.

At Euro 2020, he scored his first England goal after 62 caps, a statistic that summed up his role: less about glory, more about graft. He has worn the armband in friendlies and served as vice-captain, embodying professionalism and resilience.

That legacy is why Tuchel—and managers before him—continue to see value in Henderson, even when his club form wanes.

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What Next for Henderson and England?

Henderson could feature when England face Andorra and Serbia in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. These are matches where rotation might occur, opening the door for both veterans and newcomers to stake their claim.

The bigger question is long-term. Can Henderson realistically be part of England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico? At 36, he would be among the oldest players in the tournament. History suggests that few outfield players remain at the top international level beyond their mid-30s.

For Wharton and others, the hope is that their time comes sooner rather than later. If Tuchel wants to build a squad capable of both winning now and sustaining success into the future, he will need to make tough calls.

Final Thoughts: Experience vs. Evolution

The debate around Jordan Henderson’s inclusion is really a debate about football itself: the balance between experience and evolution. Henderson has given his all to England, and his leadership is beyond question. But football does not stand still. New talents emerge, and the game demands constant renewal.

Emile Heskey’s words resonate because they highlight a risk—holding onto the past at the expense of the future. Henderson may not be the problem, but his presence symbolizes the tension every national manager faces.

For England, the next two years are crucial. If Tuchel can find the right blend of wisdom and youth, he may finally lead the Three Lions to glory. Whether Jordan Henderson remains part of that blend is a decision that could shape England’s destiny.