Football League World
·6 October 2024
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·6 October 2024
Jordan Henderson is eyeing a potential return to English football
Jordan Henderson is attracting transfer interest from leading Championship clubs amid his lack of Ajax game time.
According to Alan Nixon, the midfielder is eyeing a potential return to English football after departing Liverpool in 2023.
The former England international left for Saudi Arabia, but lasted just six months in the Middle East before signing for the Dutch giants last January.
However, he has made just four appearances for the club so far this Eredivisie season, including just two starts, leading to speculation over his future (all stats from Fbref).
The 34-year-old has a contract with Ajax until the summer of 2026.
It is understood that there are clubs in the Premier League and Championship that both have an interest in signing Henderson.
The midfielder is a loan target for leading second division sides, although it remains unclear which ones hold a concrete interest.
It is possible that Sunderland could look to secure a move for their former player, with Henderson having come through the Black Cats’ academy system before signing for Liverpool in 2011.
While the Wearside outfit have built their current side around younger players, there has been a greater acceptance of more experienced additions in recent months, including the likes of Alan Browne and Chris Mepham.
Given the history between Henderson and Sunderland, there could be interest in bringing him back into the club for the final years of his career.
The veteran has won top honours in the game, including the Premier League and the Champions League, having played over 400 appearances for Liverpool during his 12-year stint at Anfield.
Other leading Championship clubs that could eye a move for Henderson are Sheffield United and Burnley, with all three looking to gain an edge in the race for automatic promotion to the Premier League this season.
Sunderland currently lead the way at the top of the Championship table following Friday night’s 2-2 draw against Leeds United.
A late equaliser from Sunderland earned Régis Le Bris’ side a point at the Stadium of Light, having fallen behind to goals from Joel Piroe and Junior Firpo.
Chris Rigg had put the hosts in front, but found themselves behind before the hour mark.
The Black Cats won’t be in action again until 20 October when they face Hull City, with the league now going on pause due to the upcoming international break.
Henderson isn’t quite the player he used to be anymore, but he is still a massively experienced figure and a proven leader.
Returning to Sunderland to end his career would be the most sensible way to return to English football.
Supporters would likely welcome him home with open arms, and he could be what that young dressing room needs to help compete for promotion to the Premier League.
A loan move would also make this a solid deal for any Championship side, as they would be able to find an agreement to cover just a portion of his wages instead of paying him a massive sum to sign on a permanent deal.
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