Jordan Henderson stripped of Ajax captaincy after 'threatening to go on strike' to join new club
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Jordan Henderson has been stripped of the Ajax captaincy amid his attempts to force through a transfer to Monaco.
The former Liverpool midfielder lost the armband ahead of Ajax's Europa League clash with Galatasaray after expressing his desire to leave the Dutch club.
Coach Francesco Faroili opted to give the captaincy to goalkeeper Remko Pasveer for the match, despite club officials clearing Henderson to play.
Henderson completed 75 minutes of the game before being substituted due to cramp.
Jordan Henderson has been stripped of the Ajax captaincy amid his attempts to force through a transfer to Monaco
REUTERS
The 31-year-old is currently the highest-paid player in Dutch football, earning £90,000 per week.
Despite initial difficulties with form and fitness after joining from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, Henderson has established himself as a crucial figure in the Ajax squad.
The former England international has made 43 appearances for the Amsterdam club across all competitions since moving 12 months ago.
His impact has been significant, with Henderson contributing eight assists during his time at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Jordan Henderson played for Ajax in their Europa League clash with Galatasaray on Thursday night
REUTERS
Ajax officials were left shocked by Henderson's request to terminate his contract, which runs until summer 2026.
The club has no intention of releasing the midfielder just months after signing him from Al-Ettifaq, according to The Mirror.
Henderson is pushing for the move to Monaco in pursuit of Champions League football.
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The relationship between player and club has significantly deteriorated following his transfer request.
Ajax have indicated they would only consider letting Henderson depart in the summer transfer window, rather than now, by which time a move to Monaco could be off the table.
Henderson declined to speak to Dutch television following the match.
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Stand-in captain Pasveer revealed: "Jordan was on the team sheet as captain, but he had external factors influencing him."
Former Dutch international Wesley Sneijder expressed concern about the situation, stating: "There is a lot happening behind the scenes. I fear this may be Henderson's last match after all."
Reports have emerged suggesting Henderson could resort to strike action to force through a move during the winter transfer window.
Jordan Henderson wants to join Monaco in order to play in the Champions League, having won the competition with Liverpool in 2019
PA
The veteran would prefer to play for a team in the Champions League as he approaches the twilight years of his career.
Henderson's contract with the Dutch club runs until 2026, giving Ajax significant leverage in the situation.
The standoff threatens to overshadow the remainder of Ajax's season, with the relationship between club and player becoming increasingly strained.
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