Al Ettifaq fire parting swipe at Jordan Henderson after he quits Saudi to complete Ajax transfer

AL-ETTIFAQ have fired a parting shot at Jordan Henderson following his move to Ajax.

The former Liverpool midfielder completed a free transfer to the Dutch champions just days after terminating his lucrative contract with the Saudi Pro League side.

REUTERSJordan Henderson terminated his contract with Al-Ettifaq after only six months[/caption]

AJAXThe president of the Saudi Pro League side fired a parting shot at the midfielder after his move to Ajax was confirmed.[/caption]

Both parties seemed to go their separate ways on good terms, although Al-Ettifaq’s president took a thinly veiled swipe at the England international by suggesting his exit was a “distraction” for the team.

Samer Al Misehal said: “Firstly, the club would like to thank Jordan for his efforts and wish him the best for his future endeavours.

“We are always respectful of our players.

“The club and Jordan believe this quick decision, without any delay or further distraction, has been made for both the overall good of the club and for Jordan.

“There is a lot still to play for.

“But this is a very tough league and the team performances required and expected by the club in the second half of the season under coach Steven Gerrard demand complete unity and commitment from all players and staff.

“And we look forward to regaining new momentum from this point forward through our winter training camp.”

Henderson – who is still hoping to be part of Gareth Southgate‘s squad for Euro 2024 – wished his now-former club nothing but the best after his departure was confirmed.

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AJAXJordan Henderson could make his Ajax debut on Sunday afternoon[/caption]

He said: “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 & the fans for all the support during my time.

“I really felt the love from Day One. I’ll keep watching & hoping for your success. Good luck for the future.”

Dutch giants Ajax are delighted to have Henderson on board, with manager John van’t Schip saying: “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 could make his Ajax debut on Sunday afternoon when they welcome to the Johan Cruff Arena.