England manager Thomas Tuchel has selected veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson for the World Cup squad in the United States, aiming to establish elite training standards and bolster team chemistry, according to reports from inews.
co. uk on June 26, 2026.
The 36-year-old Brentford midfielder has yet to play a single minute in the tournament as England struggles for form, but insiders reveal his presence remains vital behind the scenes.
Henderson's Influence on the Squad
His influence on the international squad remains profound during training sessions in Kansas, where he actively leads and drives the intensity of finishing drills for his international teammates.
Morgan Rogers, England midfielder, said: "If you did a blind ranking of who the players wanted in the camp [before the squad was announced], he’d be in everyone’s top five."
Rogers further highlighted the veteran's lighthearted impact on the squad, describing him as the funniest man in the camp who bridges the gap between players and coaches.
Jude Bellingham, England midfielder, said: "The best person I’ve ever come across in football. Certainly the biggest leader."
Bellingham added that the team staff frequently utilizes Henderson's leadership to resolve internal issues, confirming his status as a natural ally within the camp.
"Even the staff will go to him to sort out issues," said Bellingham.
An anonymous source from Brentford FC said: "You can’t put a price on someone who sets those sort of standards.
When Jordan does that – with everything he has achieved – it sets the bar for everyone else."
"There’s a reason why so many elite managers turn to Jordan," added the source.
Liverpool Recognition and International Role
The selection comes as Liverpool FC simultaneously named Henderson as number 25 on its all-time greatest players list, celebrating his 492 appearances and 12-year tenure at Anfield.
Henderson served as Liverpool captain from 2015 to 2023, lifting the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020 before moving to Brentford.
With Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice currently a serious doubt for the final Group L fixture, Henderson remains on standby alongside Kobbie Mainoo to feature in the upcoming match in New Jersey.
