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<\/p>\nThe UK\u2019s only openly gay professional footballer has described Jordan Henderson's move to Saudi Arabia as a \u2018slap in the face\u2019.<\/p>\n
Jake Daniels, who plays for Blackpool, last year became the first openly gay active British male professional footballer since Justin Fashanu in 1990. Former Liverpool captain Henderson had been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community before his decision to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq, who are managed by Steven Gerrard.<\/p>\n
Homosexuality is illegal in the Gulf state, leading many to accuse the England midfielder of hypocrisy and of turning his back on the community. Henderson actually messaged Daniels to offer his support after he came out. However, the 18-year-old says that now seems like a hollow gesture.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson humiliated again as 610 fans turn up for Saudi match <\/b><\/p>\n
READ MORE: England fans fume as Saudi star Jordan Henderson 'makes the wrong choice again'<\/b><\/p>\n
\u201cHe [Henderson] messaged me when I came out. He was backing me and said \u2018We\u2019re proud of what you\u2019ve done\u2019. And seeing him move to Saudi, it kind of like, slaps me in my face really,\u201d Daniels told the BBC. \u201cObviously it was frustrating. But I guess the money pays well, and money must mean more to people.\u201d <\/p>\n
Daniels, who made his senior debut for Blackpool in May 2022, said Gerrard had also personally reached out to him following his announcement. He added: \u201cI met him in person and he said \u2018If you ever want to get in contact then message me\u2019. But he moved over [to Saudi Arabia]. It was frustrating.\u201d<\/p>\n
What do you think about Jordan Henderson's move to Saudi Arabia? Tell us in the comments section below<\/i> <\/b><\/p>\n
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Speaking last month, Henderson said his values \u201chadn\u2019t changed as a person\u201d just because he was now playing in another country. Saudi Arabia is the sole bidder to host the 2034 men\u2019s World Cup, 12 years after Qatar \u2013 where homosexuality is also illegal \u2013 staged the global tournament. Daniels says he \u201cwouldn\u2019t feel safe\u201d travelling to such places.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe World Cup that happened in Qatar, the one that is going to happen in Saudi Arabia, for me if I was there I wouldn\u2019t feel safe, so that\u2019s just putting your football in jeopardy,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
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Daniels believes his decision to come out 18 months ago has helped his career. He said: \u201cIt has been crazy since coming out. I didn\u2019t think it would blow up as much as it did.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe reception I\u2019ve had, the people I\u2019ve met, it\u2019s been a crazy experience. Coming out was the best thing I\u2019ve ever done. I\u2019m playing better now.\u201d<\/p>\n