Top Story: Jordan Henderson Set for Premier League Return with Brentford After Ajax Exit
London — Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson is set to make a sensational return to the Premier League, with Brentford poised to sign the 84-cap England midfielder on a two-year deal following his departure from Dutch giants Ajax.
The 35-year-old’s move comes after Ajax agreed to terminate his contract a year early, opening the door for Brentford to beat stiff competition from several top clubs across Europe and the UK. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming days.
Henderson’s arrival marks a major coup for Brentford, who have been searching for a replacement for former club captain Christian Nørgaard, recently signed by Arsenal. Henderson brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and top-flight pedigree to the Bees’ midfield.
“Playing in the Premier League again gives me the best chance to stay in the England squad,” Henderson said privately, as he looks to secure his place under new England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Though omitted from Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, Henderson has featured in all of Tuchel’s squads since the German took over in January, making three appearances as he looks to re-establish himself on the international stage.
A decorated career — and unfinished business
Henderson spent 12 glittering years at Liverpool, where he lifted virtually every major trophy available: the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Community Shield. He was pivotal in ending the club’s 30-year league title drought in 2020.
After leaving Liverpool in 2023 for Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, Henderson’s controversial Middle East stint lasted less than six months. In January 2024, he joined Ajax, where he quickly became a key figure — despite narrowly missing out on the Eredivisie title to PSV Eindhoven.
At Ajax, Henderson proved he still had plenty to offer: he created the joint-most chances of any player at the club, led the team in passes, crosses, and topped the charts for combined tackles and interceptions among midfielders.
Analysis: Big shoes to fill at Brentford
By Matthew Hobbs, BBC Sport
Brentford will be hoping Henderson can seamlessly step into the role vacated by Nørgaard, who was among the Premier League’s most effective defensive midfielders. Since 2021, Nørgaard led the league with 201 interceptions, and ranked second in recoveries and third in tackles won.
Henderson’s tactical intelligence, leadership, and passing range offer Brentford a proven engine in midfield — and his presence could prove vital as the club looks to push further up the Premier League table in the 2025/26 season.
