England have received a timely morale boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Norway, with experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson rejoining the squad after undergoing successful surgery on a broken arm.
The veteran midfielder suffered the injury during post-match celebrations following England’s victory over Mexico and was initially left behind for treatment. Although he is not expected to feature again in the tournament, Henderson has now returned to the team’s base in Kansas City, where he will continue supporting the squad.
His return has been welcomed by teammates, with Morgan Rogers describing the former Liverpool captain as the “heartbeat” of the England dressing room.
According to Rogers, Henderson’s leadership, experience and selfless attitude remain invaluable even while sidelined.
“He always puts the team first,” Rogers said. “Whether he’s on the pitch or offering advice off it, he brings so much to the group. Having him around gives everyone a lift.”
Rogers also expressed hope that Henderson would continue playing an active role behind the scenes throughout England’s World Cup campaign.
Following his operation, Henderson shared a photo of himself wearing a cast and thanked the medical team that carried out the procedure, while also turning his attention to Saturday’s crucial encounter against Norway.
Meanwhile, England manager Thomas Tuchel had a few fitness concerns during Wednesday’s training session.
Declan Rice, Reece James and Marc Guéhi all trained separately as part of individual recovery programmes. Rice is managing minor hamstring and lower back discomfort but is still expected to be fit for the quarter-final. Guéhi is reportedly dealing with muscle fatigue, while James continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Tuchel is also monitoring the availability of James closely as England continue searching for solutions at right-back, with Jarell Quansah’s suspension still under review by the Football Association.
England will also have to be cautious with disciplinary issues. Rice, Guéhi, Jude Bellingham and Nico O’Reilly are all one booking away from suspension and would miss a potential World Cup semi-final if cautioned against Norway.
England take on Norway on Saturday, aiming to book a place in the final four of the tournament, with Henderson expected to provide leadership from the sidelines despite his injury.
