Former Liverpool star Jordan Henderson, who has returned to Europe with Ajax, has revealed that he had a difficult six-month stint in Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool Legend Henderson Suffered After Becoming a member of Saudi Aspect Al-Ettifaq
Henderson left Liverpool for Saudi Professional League aspect Al-Ettifaq in August. The England worldwide, who calls himself an ally of the LGBTQ+ neighborhood, obtained numerous flak for transferring to a rustic the place same-sex relationships are unlawful. In October, the 33-year-old was infamously booed off the Wembley pitch throughout England’s 1-0 win over Australia.
Henderson apologized for the damage sentiments however stood by his determination to maneuver to Saudi Arabia. He known as it an thrilling undertaking and expressed his want to form the way forward for soccer in Saudi Arabia. The midfielder’s intentions, nonetheless, didn’t replicate on the pitch, as he struggled to reside as much as expectations. Earlier than placing in his switch request, Henderson performed 17 matches within the Saudi Professional League, claiming 4 assists.
Henderson Excited To Be part of Ajax, Hopes To Develop A Mutually Useful Relationship
On Thursday (January 18), Henderson formally signed a two-and-a-half-year take care of Ajax. He acknowledged the difficulties he confronted in Saudi Arabia, expressing his want to show over a brand new leaf within the Netherlands.
The ex-Liverpool skipper informed Ajax’s web site (by way of RTE):
“It’s been a troublesome yr or so for the membership, each on and off the sector, however that’s the identical for me up to now six months.
“So hopefully we may help one another come collectively and assist one another go ahead and try to be as profitable as attainable within the close to future.”
He continued:
“It’s been a little bit of a whirlwind, loopy few days, however I’m simply so excited now to be right here, to begin a brand new chapter, a brand new journey in my life and my profession and I’m simply so excited to be right here and a part of this membership.
“As soon as I knew that there was a possibility, I used to be overexcited and actually overwhelmed that this chance was there for me. It was one thing that I wished to try to make occur.”
Ajax have been markedly beneath their finest this season. Having amassed solely 28 factors from 17 matches, they discover themselves in fifth place within the Eredivisie standings — a whopping 23 factors behind leaders PSV Eindhoven. Will probably be fascinating to see if Henderson’s management and expertise assist John van ‘t Schip’s aspect flip their fortunes round within the second half of the 2023-24 season.