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Soccer

Mark Lawrenson has no sympathy for want-away England midfielder

Ash Rose
Mark Lawrenson has no sympathy for want-away England midfielderGetty
England star eyeing return to Europe

Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has little sympathy for Jordon Henderson, as the midfielder plots a move back to Europe. 

The England international made the controversial move to Saudi Arabia last summer, linking up with former team-mate Steven Gerrard who's now boss of Al-Ettifaq. At the time, Henderson faced criticism over the move, with many suggesting he chose financial gain over some of his previous campaigning. 

However, the move hasn't gone to plan for the 33-year-old, with Gerrard's team struggling for form and Henderson unable to settle in the country. It is now believed the former Liverpool man is looking for a route back to Europe, but Lawrenson told Paddy Power he doesn't feel sorry for the player. 

“I don’t have sympathy for Jordan Henderson – he made his decision to go and play there. I don’t think Liverpool are in a position to take him back – unless the Saudis let him go [for free]." Lawrenson said. 

Henderson has been linked with moves to Ajax and Juventus, while some have suggested a return to Anfield. But Lawrenson believes his former side would only be interested if he was available on a free transfer. 

Adding: "If the Saudis say he can go, then I think that will be attractive to Liverpool. He’d be another body, he’s experienced, and wouldn’t have to play in every game. If he is for sale though, I’d be quite surprised if he went back to Liverpool.”