Jurgen Klopp has claimed Jordan Henderson’s Liverpool exit was a ‘“really, really tough’ decision.
Henderson’s 12-year stay at Anfield officially ended on Thursday as his move to Al-Ettifaq was finally confirmed in a deal worth an initial £12 million.
The England international departs the Reds amid allegations that his switch to Saudi Arabia flies in the face of his advocacy of the LGBTQ+ community.
But Klopp revealed that Henderson agonised over ending ties with the club after winning virtually every available honour during his spell as captain.
“I know it was a really, really tough decision for Hendo and I was around or with him all the way,” said the Liverpool manager.
“It’s sad, absolutely strange, because he is the only captain I had here at Liverpool, but I think it is exciting for him as well.
“We will miss him, without a shadow of a doubt, that’s clear – as a man and as a player.”
He added: “I know, and it is always like this in life, people will only appreciate him properly after he has left.
“I think he didn’t get the proper appreciation or respect he would have deserved over the years – from some for sure, but not from all.
“Now he leaves, I would say, not on the highest high because obviously last season was not fantastic, but leaving on a high and I think that’s good.
“In the future when people are looking back then they will realise Jordan Henderson was the skipper of [our] most successful squad until then.
“That’s a special career. He should be, and will be in the future, proud of it.”