17 November 2023 , 18:53
1265
0
England fans did not take kindly to Gareth Southgate's decision to start Jordan Henderson over Declan Rice against Malta.
The Three Lions welcomed Malta to Wembley for a Euro 2024 qualifier and Southgate's starting XI raised eyebrows among supporters, particularly the decision to start the 33-year-old former Liverpool captain over Arsenal's £105million man Declan Rice.
The Gunners ace has been in fine form for Mikel Arteta's men this term, but did not get a start for the visit of the European minnows; in a game England were expected to win comfortably, he was rested.
But with many feeling that Henderson's international career would be on the decline since his move to Saudi outfit Al-Ettifaq in the summer from Liverpool, many couldn't believe he was at the centre of a new-look midfield, also featuring Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher.
Fans took to social media in their droves to express their disappointment, with one X user writing: "F****** Jordan Henderson again. What’s the point of that. JWP [James Ward Prowse] or anyone else could be getting some game time under them not yesterday’s man. Hate that I’m bothered."
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush
His sentiments were echoed by another annoyed fan who added: "Jordan Henderson starting in a pointless game against Malta - Southgate 101." One particular irate supporter wrote: "They better boo Jordan Henderson again."
Henderson's first game back at Wembley for his country after the Saudi summer switch was marred by boos and jeers from England fans. That response inspired a fierce defence of him from Southgate.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Is Southgate wrong for starting Henderson against Malta? Comment below
Jordan Henderson of England during the pre-match warm up (Kieran McManus/REX/Shutterstock)Speaking after the 1-0 win over Australia, Southgate told reporters: "I really don’t understand it. He’s a player who has won 79 caps for England and his commitment and what he has delivered for England is exceptional.
"His role in the group on and off the pitch is phenomenally important – he’s the one that has taken the likes of Jude Bellingham under his wing since he came into the squad.
"He’s a brilliant role model for all of the group in his professionalism and his approach. Some people deciding to boo I really don’t understand what that is for."
A match programme paying tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton (PA)
A black corner flag in tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton (PA)Friday night saw Wembley pay its respects to Sir Bobby Charlton, the Manchester United and England icon, following his death at the age of 86 last month. Southgate was at Charlton's funeral at Manchester Cathedral on Monday.
There was a pre-match ceremony, period of applause and players wore black armbands in memory of a man whose importance to English football was reiterated to the squad this week.
“A big part of what we’ve wanted to do with our players is to talk about our identity as a team,” England boss Southgate said. “Part of that is knowing the history of our team and having an understanding of how special some of the players that have been England internationals before are.
“We’ve had the chance to do that this week. We showed some footage of Sir Bobby to the players, the first day we arrived.
Everton chiefs face transfer backlash from fans after deadline day disaster
“You can have a fabulous club career and an international career. At times those things can come into conflict because club managers of course have got to look after their own roles and responsibilities, and that can put players in difficult positions with all international teams, frankly. But your international team will always be there as well and if you can win something with your international team, it’s probably bigger than anything else you’re going to experience.
“So, there were lots of messages within that for all of the players but, most importantly, an incredible player, an incredible man.”
England starting XI vs Malta:Pickford; Trippier, Tomori, Maguire, Guehi; Henderson, Gallagher, Alexander-Arnold; Foden, Kane, Rashford
Click to receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our