Spectators jeered Jordan Henderson during an international match at Wembley, to which Harry Maguire responded, "proper England fans don't boo players."
Henderson acknowledged it was "disappointing" to be the target of jeers as he left the field following Friday's 1-0 friendly victory over Australia.
When the 33-year-old joined Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq in July, he left his position as captain of Liverpool to play in the Saudi Pro League, which drew criticism.
The midfield player, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights while at Anfield, expressed regret for any hurt he may have caused by relocating to a nation where homosexuality was prohibited last month.
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Before the Australia match, there were whispers about Henderson's name being called out. However, a small group of supporters jeered when he was substituted in the second half, and there were a few boos when he came off the bench in Tuesday's 3-1 victory over Italy in the Euro 2024 qualifying match.
Manchester United and England fans have made fun of Maguire, who suggested that those who did turn on Henderson "aren't England fans."
"Proper England fans don't boo players," he told Sky Sports.
"Don't boo players who dedicate their life to play and do everything they can to make this country have good memories and special moments for them and the fans and their families.
"I know a lot of top, top England fans, and I know the England fans who have been with me ever since my debut.
"They're right behind me, and they're right behind Jordan as well.
"You heard a lot of cheers and yes, a few jeers, but they aren't England fans."
Despite some criticism, Gareth Southgate is expected to continue to believe in Henderson, who was selected captain against the Socceroos and Maguire. The England manager stated the night before the Italy match that he could not choose his team based solely on a "popularity contest."
