Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson has played down speculation linking him with a move to Sunderland in the January transfer window.
The 34-year-old, who was born in Sunderland and began his career with the Black Cats, expressed his affection for his boyhood club but confirmed his commitment to Ajax for now.
Henderson addressed the rumours following Ajax’s 3-0 victory over Almere City FC at the weekend. Speaking to ESPN NL, as reported by Voetbal Primeur, the former England captain clarified there has been no contact from Sunderland and reaffirmed his intention to stay in Amsterdam.
“It’s My Club”
Henderson spent 13 years at Sunderland, progressing through their academy and playing five seasons with the first team before moving to Liverpool in 2011. When asked about the reports linking him with a return, he expressed his lifelong connection to the club.
“It’s my club, ever since I was a boy of six or seven years old. Then I was in the stands,” Henderson said. “But I just hope I stay here [at Ajax]. I really like it here. I want to help the club to grow further. We are also taking those steps. But I also read it. I don’t even know where all this comes from, because there has been no contact.”
Henderson’s current deal with Ajax runs until 2026, and he has made 25 appearances for the Eredivisie side this season. Both Ajax’s technical director, Alex Kroes, and manager Francesco Farioli have previously ruled out a mid-season departure for the midfielder, further quashing the transfer rumours.
Speculation Dismissed
Reports linking Henderson with Sunderland have persisted since October, but the midfielder has repeatedly stated he remains focused on his commitments at Ajax. Despite his ties to the Black Cats, it seems a January return to the Stadium of Light is not on the cards.
Henderson’s influence at Ajax continues to grow, and his comments highlight a desire to contribute to the club’s ongoing development. For now, Sunderland fans will have to put their hopes of seeing their academy graduate return to Wearside on hold.
