Given Henderson’s career and accomplishments, he will be furious with himself because this is likely his final World Cup. Yet equally, the 36-year-old’s significance to the squad and this particular England side cannot be overstated.
That is why reports that Henderson, fitness permitting amid the expectation of surgery, would ideally like to rejoin the camp to support his team-mates will be warmly welcomed. Not only that, but it demonstrates the veteran’s genuine character and his humility in placing others ahead of himself.
He may not be everyone’s favourite player, but you would be hard-pressed to find someone of his professionalism, and alongside Harry Kane, he establishes the benchmark for the rest of the England squad to emulate.
Following such a dreadful moment and ordeal, it would be entirely understandable if Henderson wished to return home to be with his family.
Granted, it is not an ACL or broken leg, but it must weigh heavily considering England were in the midst of celebrating such a momentous achievement and evening. It says everything that Henderson was actually the first player to run onto the field from the bench to join his teammates’ celebrations.
He lives and breathes every moment from the touchline, which is precisely why he has picked up two yellow cards at this tournament despite featuring for just six minutes at this World Cup.
Thomas Tuchel was visibly downcast in his press conference, clearly troubled by the incident and the prospect that it could rob Henderson of any further involvement at this World Cup.
England simply must keep him within the squad environment — his ability to keep everyone’s feet firmly on the ground is invaluable, which is why it comes as an enormous relief, though hardly a surprise, to learn that Henderson’s top priority is to return to camp and contribute in whatever capacity he can.
He appears destined for a career in management, and this experience may well offer him a compelling glimpse of what life could look like on the other side of the white line.