Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has returned to training at the club’s Melwood base, but fully understands why some players are still wary about safety protocols in returning to full-contact training this week.
The highly respected and celebrated Reds skipper says he respects the decisions of Troy Deeney and N’Golo Kante not to return to Premier League training, but added that those who have decided to return should be given due respect as well.
Henderson has joined up with the rest of the Reds squad this week after Premier League clubs were given the go-ahead to return to training in small groups in a bid to restart the sport following the pandemic. The vast majority of players have been back at their training grounds this week although some have opted to stay away and seek more assurances about their safety.
Watford captain Troy Deeney has been particularly outspoken on his refusal to train with the rest of his teammates, while Chelsea have allowed N’Golo Kante to stay away due to his personal reservations.
The pair are not alone in expressing their concerns, and Henderson says he would back a Liverpool player who said similar.
“I fully respect their opinion and their decision to do that,” he told Sky Sports.
“I think everybody is in a different situation with their family and at home. Ultimately, if you don’t feel comfortable or safe, you shouldn’t feel forced or pressured to come into work.
“I fully respect the lads that don’t feel comfortable as of yet, and I hope that they respect my opinion and that of the other players who have come back.”