Liverpool is dealing with a fresh round of internal tension after former captain Jordan Henderson appeared to publicly support Mohamed Salah in the middle of the winger’s dispute with the club and head coach Arne Slot.
Henderson, who left Anfield over two years ago, received criticism from the fanbase after responding to Salah’s latest Instagram post with a red heart emoji. Although some believed the gesture was a simple show of solidarity between former teammates, others considered it a slight against the club during a highly sensitive moment.
Salah was dropped from the squad following his comments after the 3-3 draw at Leeds. He accused Liverpool of “throwing him under the bus”, claiming he has “no relationship” with Slot. The forward stated on Merseyside as the team travelled to face Inter Milan in the Champions League. He then posted a captionless photo of himself training alone, prompting past and present players to react online.
Several teammates, including Alisson Becker, Andy Robertson, Harvey Elliot and Dominik Szoboszlai liked the post, while Trent Alexander-Arnold also engaged with it. But it was Henderson’s emoji response that set off a debate among supporters. Many questioned whether the former captain should publicly back a player who is currently at odds with the club.
During a digital era where fans are aware of every public interaction, any kind of reaction, like Henderson’s, can fuel debates and conversations. Supporters have become aware of how off-the-pitch events impact morale and match preparation, and the impacts of these interactions can even impact betting odds and behaviours. Fans are turning to the top sportsbooks that accept credit cards, not only for their convenience, but for their insights and updated odds that change as fast as team circumstances.
Fans Question Henderson’s Loyalty
Some supporters believe that Henderson crossed a line. One fan replied to his comment, saying: “That’s crazy Hendo. You support Salah and not the club! As a former captain, you should know better and know Liverpool!” Another disgruntled commenter added: “Can you have a word, please, and tell him from the genuine fans, anyone who doesn’t think he has to fight for his place every day doesn’t deserve to wear the badge.”
Some called his comment “weak”, while others encouraged Henderson to tell Salah to stop being so selfish.
The midfielder’s decision to back Salah was called tone-deaf, especially given the nature of Salah’s comments about the club and Slot.
Salah had accused figures at Liverpool of wanting him “to get all the blame” and insisted that he doesn’t have to fight for his position every day since he earned it. His remarks were met with backlash, with some critics calling Salah a disgrace.
Defence In Favour Of Henderson
Not everyone condemned Henderson. Some believed he was standing by someone he shared success with during Liverpool’s most decorated period under Jurgen Klopp. His supporters said he was the best captain for being willing to publicly show support during a fractious moment.
In the meantime, the situation surrounding Salah is not looking like it is calming down. The forward was excluded from the Inter match, and many are wondering if his relationship with Slot will be repaired.
