Jordan Henderson details the role Liverpool played in him quitting Saudi Arabia

19 January 2024 , 15:45

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Jordan Henderson gives a press conference during his official presentation at the ArenA in Amsterdam (Image: REMKO DE WAAL/ANP/AFP)

Jordan Henderson has revealed the role Liverpool coach Pep Lijnders played in completing his transfer to Ajax.

The former Reds midfielder joined the Eredivisie side as a free agent having terminated his contract with Al-Ettifaq after just six months with the club. Henderson had joined the Saudi Pro League club controversially when he signed a three-year deal worth £350,000-a-week in the summer.

The 33-year-old played in front of crowds as low as 696 people in the Middle East. Henderson, who caused plenty of upset when making the move due to the contrast with his public pro-LGBTQ+ stance, said the move was based on footballing reasons and has apologised to those he may have offended.

The England international admitted the 'European Championships are always on my mind' when speaking at his Amsterdam unveiling and noted that the opportunity to join the Dutch giants 'doesn't come around very often'. Henderson also revealed that Reds coach Lijnders had some kind words to say about the club and city when he was considering the move.

"He said very positive things that it was a beautiful club and city," said Henderson, "He thought it was a perfect fit for me as a player and a person.

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"He spoke highly of the club and the coach. I did speak to a few different people who have been at the club and know a lot. To be honest, every person I did speak to said positive things."

Henderson's boss at Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp defended Henderson's right to cut his move short. The German coach suggested that his former charge was influenced by what was best for his family.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of Bournemouth, Klopp said: "I am happy for him because it looks like he's happy and that's the most important thing for me. I don't read these stories, people are critical of the move, first there and now coming back.

"I don't know how we dare to judge, we have one life and sometimes you make decisions and it is different after you make them. Ninety-nine per cent when I spoke to him was football-wise, many things to develop there but not critical [of Saudi] but then he thought it was better to come back with his family. Ajax is a sensational club."

Scott Trotter