So close yet so far. Jordan Henderson’s ecstatic return to Europe had to be postponed for a little while longer, as the newly-signed midfielder was forced to sit out his new side Ajax’s fixture against RKC Waalwijk, due to work permit issues.
Henderson, who made the move away from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, has been aching to get back to playing European football.
But, the Englishman was prevented from doing so by the new rules that have been brought in after Brexit, which render his current work permit null.
Amsterdam! So happy to be here. Can’t wait to see you all soon ❌❌❌ @AFCAjax pic.twitter.com/da3idpC3AB— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) January 18, 2024
Henderson was seen taking pictures of the Johan Cryuff Arena from the directors’ box while wearing a club scarf. If his work permit is approved in the coming week, Henderson will be able to feature against Eredivisie minnow Heracles on Saturday.
Ajax had started the process of securing a work permit for the midfielder, which is now a requirement following the UK’s exit from the European Union. But having one approved may take as long as two weeks.
Ajax, who themselves have had a nightmarish season turn around for the better, are said to be attempting to fast-track his application, which will positively be provided to Henderson. But, despite their best efforts, they could not get it done in time for the former Liverpool midfielder to make his debut for the Dutch giants.
@JHenderson #ajarkc pic.twitter.com/mWusf1msAy— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 21, 2024
Ajax are in dire need of instant impact as the Dutch giants were second to last in the league till October, following a disastrous start to the season that saw the club part company with coach Maurice Steijn after just winning just one of its first seven games of the season.
A managerial change took place twith John van’t Schip coming in to inspire change. Under Schip, the side has found their rhythm once again as they remain unbeaten in the league since, with 8 wins and 2 draws in the last 10 games, and have now worked their way up to fifth place in the Eredivisie.
Ajax are still a whopping 21 points behind runaway leader PSV Eindhoven, which has won all 17 of their 18 matches so far this season and appears to have the title and a Champions League place all but locked up halfway through the Dutch domestic season.
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