Scotland defender Jack Hendry believes the high calibre of opposition in the Saudi Pro League is ideal preparation for a potential World Cup appearance. The 30-year-old, who plays for Al-Ettifaq, regularly faces international stars such as Darwin Nunez, Ruben Neves, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
Hendry, capped 36 times, is 180 minutes away from helping Scotland qualify for the 2026 World Cup. He noted that the Saudi league's quality surpasses that of the MLS, with each club fielding eight foreign internationals. 'It's a really good test week in, week out,' he said.
The defender's career has taken him from Scotland and England to Australia, Belgium, Italy, and now Saudi Arabia. He praised the benefits of playing abroad, saying it helps players 'learn about the game' and benefits the national team.
Hendry is in the final year of his contract with Al-Ettifaq, but the club is working on an extension. He has embraced the culture and turned down other offers to stay in the Middle East.
