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Jordan Henderson believes he is wiser for his experiences on and off the field after returning to Europe following his ill-fated move to Saudi Arabia.
The former Liverpool captain signed for Dutch side Ajax this week after ending his debatable contract with Al-Ettifaq less than six months into a three-year contract.
The 33-year-old believes he can still play several more seasons at this level.
“I still feel very good physically,” Henderson said at his official presentation as an Ajax player at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
“I work out very hard, I take care of myself, I dedicate my life to football. I’ve been doing it since I was little and I hope to play for many more years.
“Obviously with age comes more experience, you learn a lot, you go through different experiences both in football and in life.
“I feel like now at my age I’m a wiser user and I can apply it on the field, integrate it into the team and help a lot of young players take the next step in their careers, and at the same time. “I’ll be at the point where I want to perform at the top in each and every match.
While doubts remain about the point of celebration in the Saudi Pro League, despite recent huge investments in players from his clubs, Henderson’s move could help him retain his position in England heading into Euro 2024.
Start your day with the vibes of Hendo ? pic. twitter. com/1J4zAvNF9G
– AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) January 19, 2024
Henderson did not deny that was a motivation but insisted his immediate goal was to make his mark in the Eredivisie with Ajax.
He said: “I had the euro in mind. I have an idea of England. It’s very important for me to play for my country, as everyone knows, and that’s been the case everywhere I’ve played.
“But at the end of the day, I have to do my homework on the pitch for Ajax and do well for Ajax. That’s my most sensible priority. If I do, I’ll be called up to the England national team.
Henderson will not be able to make his debut against RKC Waalwijk this weekend as he awaits a work permit. It is unclear how long that will take to come through and, in the meantime, he cannot even train with his new team-mates.
He said: “I’m fit to play as soon as possible, but obviously I have to wait. As soon as everything is smart and I’m in good condition, I’ll be in a position to go. “