Henderson expected to start for England despite LGBTQ+ backlash

Jordan Henderson is expected to start England's European Qualifier against Ukraine on Saturday despite backlash from the LGBTQ+ community.

Henderson, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights during his time as Liverpool captain, has taken widespread criticism for moving to Saudi club Al Ettifaq during the summer transfer window. Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can result in capital punishment.

After England manager Southgate selected Henderson for his September internationals, England's LGBTQ+ supporters group Three Lions Pride announced they would turn their back to the pitch if Henderson played for his country again - as that is what they feel he has done to them.

Manager Gareth Southgate said Henderson, who is expected to start in their Group C fixture in Wroclaw, would be "sad" if England's LGBTQ+ fans turned their back on the team.

Asked about the protest move, Southgate said: "I think Jordan expressed himself this week that he would be sad if that's how they felt. His feeling towards that community hasn't changed.