RIYADH: Al-Ettifaq and Jordan Henderson have mutually agreed to terminate the player’s contract on amicable terms.

England midfielder Henderson will join Dutch club Ajax in the hope of putting himself in the frame for Euro 2024.

Speaking on the decision, Club President 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.”

Jordan 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.”

Club President Samer Al-Misehal added: “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 has been with the Saudi club for six months since leaving Liverpool, whom he captained to their first league title in 30 years in 2020 and also to Champions League glory in 2019.

The 33-year-old England midfielder would be a valuable asset to Ajax as they seek to recover from the worst start in their history that left them briefly bottom of the Dutch league.

They have endured a terrible season that culminated in December in a shock 3-2 loss to amateur club Hercules in the cup.