Former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has defended Jordan Henderson over attacks on his character.

Henderson, who was previously the Reds' captain, left for Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq this summer.

After listening to a lot of criticism of Henderson over his Saudi Arabia move and his previous support for LGBTQ+ causes, Celtic boss Rodgers was not impressed.

“It's their profession, it's their life so they have to do what's best for them," the ex-Liverpool boss told talkSPORT.

"There's so many morality officers around the world nowadays that are judging people.

"But Jordan I know extremely well and I know the love he had for Liverpool. He was at the stage of his career where he probably wasn't going to be the first name on the team sheet anymore. At 33 years of age, he's won absolutely everything.

“He probably fancied a different challenge and out of respect, it probably didn't feel right for him being at another Premier League club. So to go abroad and take on a new challenge clearly suited him."