Dean Henderson has revealed that he chartered a private jet so that his family could make a last-minute trip to Finland on Sunday.
The goalkeeper was told the day before the game that he would be making his first England appearance in nearly four years.
Henderson’s dad, Dougie, passed away in July, and the 27-year-old was visibly emotional when he came to reflect on his second cap.
‘My old man, unfortunately, we lost him in the summer,’ began Henderson. ‘So it would have been great for him to be here to watch me. It's been emotional. He didn't miss any games. The journey we went on was phenomenal. I’ve just got to keep it continuing. I know I've just got to keep doing him proud.’
Henderson’s mum, wife, brother and father-in-law all made it in time for the 3-1 win in Helsinki.
Dean Henderson chartered a private jet for his family to watch him play against Finland
‘I had to go all out and get them over here on a (charter) plane,’ he said.
‘But I did it just because I knew that it was such a big thing for the family. I didn’t want them to miss it. We were trying to do last minute flights to get them here. I was delighted they made it. They were emotional in the stand, I could see that.’
It has been a difficult week for Henderson after the shock death of his former Sheffield United team-mate George Baldock.
‘That one, I cannot believe,’ he said. ‘I'm still numb from that. Finding out earlier in the week, the group of lads we had there and what a big character he was. To lose him… just out the blue as well.
'Annabel, his poor missus, and everything with the young boy, Brody. I don't even know what to say. I'm lost for words on it. I’m still numb to this day.’