Jordan Henderson Claims Leeds United Were Disrespectful To Liverpool Players

Jordan Henderson has branded Leeds United 'disrespectful' towards Liverpool players for wearing 'Earn It' t-shirts, in the wake of the European Super League.

Emotions were running high on April 19th, when Liverpool turned up to Elland Road for their Premier League game under the shadow of the ESL.

It was the first game played involving one of the league's 'big six' following the announcement the previous night and Leeds fans turned up to protest when their side's opponents arrived.

On the pitch, Marcelo Bielsa's side warmed up in t-shirts with the message 'Earn It' underneath the Champions League logo, something the teams wouldn't have had to do in the ESL.

Liverpool captain Henderson, who was out injured at the time, has said that was disrespectful to the players who had nothing to do with it.

"The T-shirts, I felt, were disrespectful," the midfielder told the New York Times, ""The players hadn't done anything. It wasn't something we wanted."

In the interview though the Premier League winner did agree with the shirts sentiments, saying, "You have to earn your right to be in the Champions League."

Brighton players also wore the t-shirts before playing Chelsea. Image: PA Images

Like with the other clubs, Henderson and the players didn't know about the plans, and Liverpool's decision to sign up, until it was announced.

The 30-year-old was reportedly very vocal against the decision behind the scenes and sent a message to the fans opposing it.

In his statement the former Sunderland player said, "We don't like it and we don't want it to happen.

"This is our collective position.

"Our commitment to this football club and its supporters is absolute and unconditional."

Fans protested outside Elland Road ahead of the game. Image: PA Images

Henderson didn't like the Super League but he also isn't a fan of the changes to the Champions League, which will see teams play 10 games just at the group stage.

"The Super League wasn't right, but the new Champions League isn't right, either.

"There has been no consideration for player welfare. I know it is hard to hear players moaning when people are working nine-to-five, but we are giving everything when we play.

"You are exhausted when you come off after a game, and then you have no time to recover. It's unacceptable. It's screaming for injury."

He certainly makes some good points!

Topics: Liverpool, European Super League, Football, Premier League, Leeds United, Jordan Henderson

Ryan Sidle

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