Jordan Henderson Joins Ajax After Terminating Ettifaq Contract

Jordan Henderson has joined Ajax on a two-and-a-half-year contract after ending his short spell in Saudi Arabia.

The former Liverpool captain, 33, played just 19 games for Al-Ettifaq after arriving from Anfield for a transfer fee of £12 million in July.

He scored zero goals and provided four assists for Ettifaq.

Henderson had been desperate to leave Saudi Arabia and effectively had to buy out his contract.

But he said in a statement published via social media: "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. I really felt the love from day one.

"I'll keep watching and hoping for your success. Good luck for the future."

Ajax are currently fifth in the Dutch Eredivisie table - 23 points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven, who have won 17 games out of 17.

Henderson told his new club's official website this week: "It's been a tough year for Ajax, both on and off the pitch. That's the same for me in the past six months.

"So, hopefully, we can help each other to move forward and be successful in the near future."

He added: "Putting on that Ajax shirt for the first time will be really special and I can't wait for that to happen.

"Once I knew that there was an opportunity [to move here], I was overexcited and just overwhelmed that this opportunity was there for me.

"It was something that I wanted to try to make happen so it is very humbling for me to be here now. It's a special day."

Ettifaq president Samer Al-Meshal said in a club statement: "First, the club would like to thank Jordan for his efforts and wish him success in his future. We always respect our players.

"The club and Jordan believe that this swift decision, without any further delay or distraction, has been made in the best interest of the club overall and in the best interests of Jordan."

Jordan Henderson pictured applauding Ettifaq fans after a game against Al Nassr in October

IMAGO/Power Sport Images/Victor Fraile