Saudi president fires parting shot as Henderson breaks silence on Ajax move
Al-Ettifaq president Samer Al Misehal has fired a parting shot towards England midfielder Jordan Henderson, who's quit the Saudi Arabian club after just six months.
Henderson, 33, controversially chose to abandon Liverpool last July and became one of the big-name stars to leave European club football for the riches of the Saudi Pro League. The ex-Reds captain immediately pledged to help improve both the gulf nation's sporting prowess and its attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community, having worked with numerous campaign groups in the UK.
But Henderson has suddenly U-turned on his decision after less than one full season working under Liverpool legend and former team-mate Steven Gerrard, signing a deal with Dutch giants Ajax until 2026. In a press release issued on Thursday evening, Al Misehal said: "Firstly, the club would like to thank Jordan for his efforts and wish him the best for his future endeavours.
"We are always respectful of our players. The club and Jordan believe this quick decision, without any delay or further distraction, has been made for both the overall good of the club and for Jordan."
The Al-Ettifaq chief then suggested he didn't want Henderson at the club if he wasn't committed, adding: "There is a lot still to play for. But this is a very tough league and the team performances required and expected by the club in the second half of the season under coach Steven Gerrard demand complete unity and commitment from all players and staff, and we look forward to regaining new momentum from this point forward through our winter training camp."
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Henderson, who hopes that the move to Ajax will give him a better chance of being included in Gareth Southgate's England squad for the upcoming European Championships in Germany, also gave a statement following his departure. "I'd like to thank the club, the fans and all involved for the opportunity and wish them the best for the remainder of the season," the 33-year-old said. "A lot of hard work is going in which I know will pay off in the future."
Your turn! Should Jordan Henderson be in England's Euro 2024 squad? Join the debate in the comments section.
Jordan Henderson has left Al-Ettifaq to sign for Ajax (ajax.nl)Henderson went on to say: "I'm sad to say that I will be leaving Al-Ettifaq with immediate effect. It wasn't an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family. I want to take this opportunity to thank the club and the fans for all the support during my time."
Meanwhile, Ajax manager John van't Schip explained: "We wanted an experienced midfielder with leadership qualities. Partially due to injuries in the team, we were looking for someone who could step in immediately. Jordan Henderson is that type of player."
"His arrival means a huge enhancement for our squad. Both on and off the pitch, a football player of this calibre is important for our many young players. He's an English international player and has won the Champions League and many other prizes with Liverpool. I am happy he's here, and I think it's very good for our club."
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