Henderson breaks silence on freak broken arm as he rejoins England's World Cup camp

Jordan Henderson has broken his silence after suffering a freak broken arm during the post-match celebrations of England’s 3-2 last-16 victory over Mexico at Estadio Azteca, confirming he has undergone successful surgery and rejoined the squad in Kansas City. The 36-year-old Brentford midfielder is ruled out for the remainder of the tournament but will remain with the group as a dressing-room presence.

Henderson was an unused substitute in the win over Mexico when he slipped attempting to leap over an advertising board after the final whistle, landing awkwardly as medics rushed to his aid. Team-mates gathered around him while he was given oxygen before being stretchered away. His father later confirmed that Henderson had “completely smashed” his forearm — a more serious injury than the broken wrist initially reported.

“Surgery done! Let’s get ready for the big one Saturday,” Henderson posted on Instagram. “Thank you to all the staff that looked after me at Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute. Especially the three surgeons who carried out the operation.”

Although Henderson was not expected to play a major on-pitch role for England at this World Cup, he did appear off the bench against Panama to become the first England player ever to feature at four World Cups. His value to Gareth Southgate’s squad has been seen primarily as a leadership and experience resource inside the dressing room, a role he can continue to fulfil despite his injury.

England face Norway in their quarter-final on Saturday, with the Scandinavians having beaten Brazil to reach the last eight.