Henderson terminates Saudi contract to join Ajax

Jordan Henderson has terminated his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq and joined Ajax on a permanent basis.

The ex-Liverpool captain's stay in the Middle East comes to an end just six months after it started last July, when he signed a three-year deal.

Henderson, 33, has been handed a two-and-a-half-year contract by the Dutch giants. 

While the midfielder may have departed, the Saudi Pro League's eighth-placed side extended manager Steven Gerrard's deal to 2027.

Gerrard, 43, played a pivotal role in luring Henderson to the Middle East, with the England ace featuring in 19 games and registering five assists across all competitions under his former skipper.

But Henderson will now join up with a resurgent Ajax, who are up to fifth in the Eredivisie after winning five of their last six league matches.

Boss John van 't Schip said: "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. 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 England international 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."

After ending his short stay in Saudi, Henderson said: "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. 

"A lot of hard work is going in, which I know will pay off in the future."

With Henderson back in European football, his focus will no doubt be to secure his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024.