Jordan Henderson speaks out for the first time after agreeing to terminate Al Ettifaq contract

Jordan Henderson has spoken out for the first time since terminating his contract at Al Ettifaq and completing his move to Ajax.

On Thursday Henderson completed a permanent move Ajax, after his contract at Al-Ettifaq was terminated.

The midfielder had signed a three-year contract worth a reported £700,000 a week with Al-Ettifaq when he left Liverpool in the summer for £12million.

However, it had been widely claimed he was unhappy and keen to return to Europe.

Henderson linked up with ex-Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, who is Al-Ettifaq boss, but he has now signed for Ajax, having made just 17 Saudi Pro League appearances.

The England international told the club website: "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."

He then took to Instagram and added: "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."

Henderson was criticised upon moving to Saudi Arabia, having previously been a prominent supporter of the LGBTQ+ community during his time at Anfield.

In Saudi Arabia same-sex sexual activity is illegal.

He said in an interview with the Athletic he was "really hurt" by the criticism, adding his intention has always been to "help causes and communities".

Upon announcing his signing, Ajax 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. 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."

More to follow...

Topics: Football, Jordan Henderson, Liverpool, Ajax, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Pro League

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.