Jordan Henderson sends message as retirement announced
Jordan Henderson has paid tribute to a “journey” of a career and wishes for the best in the “next chapter” after a confirmed retirement emerged.
Martyn Waghorn has announced the end of his player career, having come through the youth ranks with Henderson at Sunderland, beginning their senior careers at the Stadium of Light.
Waghorn left the club in 2010 when he made a loan move to Leicester City permanent, and later went on to play for a number of clubs including Ipswich Town, Derby County and Rangers.
Henderson meanwhile departed Sunderland for Liverpool in 2011, where he enjoyed a long and successful spell at Anfield.
After departing for a stint in Saudi Arabia between 2023 and 2024, the midfielder is now back in Europe with Dutch giants Ajax.
Jordan Henderson sends Martyn Waghorn message after major career decision
As was reported by Football Insider earlier in the season, Henderson would be open to a return to Sunderland in the future should an opportunity arise.
Indeed, he is clearly still a follower of the club, as recently Henderson sent a message to Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham after their 3-2 win over Middlesbrough earlier this month.
Clearly the England international also continues to support some of those who were with him at the Black Cats as well.
On Thursday (13 February), Waghorn confirmed that he has officially retired from playing, having been without a club since leaving League One side Northampton Town in December 2024.
After the striker took to Instagram to reflect on his career, Henderson was among those to show their support for his fellow former Sunderland man.
Commenting on that post from Waghorn, the ex-Liverpool captain wrote: “Congrats on everything mate!! What a journey. Wishing you and the family all the best in your next chapter.”
Sunderland fans may wonder about Jordan Henderson return
Football Insider Verdict
In truth, Waghorn would only ever make a handful of appearances for the Black Cats, spending plenty of time out on loan elsewhere before his permanent departure from the club.
Henderson though was a different story, becoming a regular feature in the side for Sunderland prior to his move to Liverpool.
As a result, given his clear connection to the club, the prospect of a return to the Stadium of Light would certainly be an interesting one.
From a sentimental point of view there is no question that it could be tempting to at least consider it for all parties involved.
Sunderland are of course also pushing or promotion back to the Premier League as well this season, and whether they succeed with that could also affect the mindset of those connected with this potential deal.
Of course, Henderson himself is now 35-years-old and approaching the latter stages of his career, so there will be questions about what level he can play at next season as well.
All of that means there are plenty of factors to be considered, although moments such as this show he has at least not forgotten his Sunderland roots.