Watkins lifts England to friendly win over Australia as Henderson booed

Gareth Southgate slammed the fans who booed Jordan Henderson as England’s understudies earned a 1-0 win against Australia thanks to Ollie Watkins’ second half strike in Friday’s friendly at Wembley.

Southgate was furious at the abuse of Henderson as England’s stand-in skipper was jeered by the Wembley crowd when he was substituted in the second half.

The Al-Ettifaq midfielder’s England inclusion has been controversial following his switch from Liverpool to Saudi Arabia, with critics claiming he has let down the LGBTQ+ community after previously expressing support for them.

Henderson also triggered a recent backlash when he supported the Saudi bid to host the 2034 World Cup.

“I really don’t understand it. He is a player with a lot of caps for England, his commitment and what he has delivered for England is exceptional,” Southgate said.

“His role in the group is phenomenally important. He is a brilliant role model in his professionalism.

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