18 January 2024 , 21:18
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Jordan Henderson has been denied his dream squad number at Ajax due to a strict rule at the Dutch side imposed to honour their biggest legend.
The former Liverpool midfielder penned a deal on Thursday evening after seeing the remainder of his Al-Ettifaq contract terminated just six months after moving to Saudi Arabia. An announcement from the Dutch side confirmed he has penned a two-and-a-half year contract with Ajax.
It was also confirmed that Henderson has claimed the number six shirt in Amsterdam - the first time he has been bestowed with the digit in his career. The former Sunderland star donned the number 14 during his hugely successful stint at Anfield.
However, he was not able to claim that number due to it being retired in honour of the legendary Johan Cruyff. The shirt number has not been used since 2007.
Speaking about his new digit, Henderson said: "I’m happy with the number. I’m not too fussed with numbers and stuff. 14 is my number but obviously that’s a huge number here and that’s not allowed here, I found out.
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"I knew. I know why it’s been retired for Cruyff, which is understandable. Everyone here said they would like to give us the number six so that’s good for me. It’s my son’s birthday as well. And my dad, when he played, was number six so hopefully it’s a good omen anyway."
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Henderson’s time at Al-Ettifaq saw him claim the number 10 shirt, the same number he had during his final season with boyhood club Sunderland. The now 33-year-old could potentially make his debut for his new side this weekend in Sunday’s Eredivisie clash against RKC Waalwijk.
Explaining why Ajax made a move for Henderson, boss 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 that he’s an Ajacied from today onwards."
Henderson’s move to Ajax brings to an end his short-lived spell in Saudi Arabia. The midfielder ended his long association with Liverpool in the summer to link up with Al-Ettifaq. He made just 19 appearances for the side and failed to score a goal, but did chalk-up five assists in all competitions.