Jordan Henderson’s shock England recall ‘a great move’, claims Jordan Pickford – as ex-Liverpool captain backed to add leadership to Three Lions

Jordan Pickford has backed Jordan Henderson’s shock England recall by Thomas Tuchel and hailed the decision to bring back the former Liverpool captain as a ‘great move’.

Henderson has not featured for the Three Lions since November 2023 and was left out of the squad for last year’s Euros as it looked as though his international career was over following a move to Saudi Arabia.

The 34-year-old was even booed by England fans when he faced Australia at Wembley a month earlier.

New England boss Tuchel, however, has been impressed with Henderson since his move to Dutch side Ajax and hailed the ‘character, personality and energy that he brings to the team’.

‘I’ve known him since the Sunderland days and his desire to want to win and what he has achieved is driven by himself,’ said England keeper Pickford. ‘He’s a winner and he’s a big leader. I think bringing Hendo back in is great for the squad.

‘For me, having leaders in your group, if you look at the last four major tournaments the teams that have won have all had that experience in their side whether they have played or haven’t played.

Jordan Pickford, right, has backed the recall of Jordan Henderson, left, to the England squad

Henderson was booed off by England fans during a friendly with Australia in October 2023

Henderson was given a warm welcome on his return to the squad by new boss Thomas Tuchel

‘I think it’s a great move for us because of what he has done and how he is still driven, whether he plays or not, he will drive the sessions with the lads.’

Henderson was all smiles as he was pictured hugging fellow recalled star Marcus Rashford and embracing Tuchel when the players met up for the first time on Monday at St George’s Park – and even shared a laugh with Newcastle centre-back Dan Burn as replays of his goal in the Carabao Cup final victory over Liverpool played on the screens.

Pickford insisted Henderson’s impact would be felt as much off the pitch as on it.

‘He has that winning mentality with what he has won at Liverpool and being captain,’ added Pickford. ‘The more leaders you have around the place will drive training and drive standards around the place and it makes it a better camp for everyone.’