Henderson targets England recall after Brentford victory

Jordan Henderson says he hopes to be part of England’s squad for the next World Cup after Brentford’s 3-1 win over Manchester United.

The midfielder joined Brentford in the summer and has quickly become an important figure in Keith Andrews’ side. He has been influential in their strong displays this season.

Speaking after the win, Henderson praised his team-mates for their efforts at both ends of the pitch and expressed his joy at being back in the Premier League.

Midfielder praises Brentford’s display

Reflecting on the opening goal, Henderson credited the movement and finishing of his team-mate. “It was a great run from him, I saw it quite early and it is a great finish from him. It started us off well,” he told TNT Sports.

He highlighted the balance between Brentford’s deep defending and the attacking qualities of Kevin Schade, Dango Ouattara, and Igor Thiago, who he said made excellent runs forward.

“The way we are defending deep and the players we have up top like Kevin, Dango and Thiago making good runs forward, you can find them. We have done that in the home games, the forwards did really good,” he said.

The 35-year-old also praised goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher for saving Bruno Fernandes’ penalty, which kept Brentford in control before Mathias Jensen sealed the win.

“When you concede the penalty but Kelleher made a great save. It is a great three points for us, we deserved it over the game,” he said.

World Cup ambition fuels return

Henderson admitted he is enjoying his football again after spells abroad, most recently with Ajax, which he credited for reigniting his love for the game.

“I am enjoying football again. I am enjoying the opportunity to come back in the Premier League, playing at the highest level week in, week out,” he said.

The midfielder revealed that thoughts of England were part of his decision to return, as he looks to fight for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

“The World Cup is always in the back of your mind when you are making decisions in the summer. But ultimately I wanted to come back and get that buzz back in the Premier League. I want to be in that England squad ready to try and win a World Cup,” he explained.

Henderson concluded by praising Brentford’s structure and staff, saying their commitment to the players played a big role in his decision to join.

The win over United was Brentford’s second of the campaign, taking their tally to seven points from their opening six Premier League matches.