Jordan Henderson Set to Join Brentford in Surprise Premier League Return

Brentford are close to signing Jordan Henderson, bringing him back to the Premier League. He left Ajax this week and is heading to Brentford as a free agent. The 35-year-old ex-Liverpool captain fills the gap left by Christian Norgaard’s recent departure.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Henderson and Ajax terminated his contract a year early, after his January 2024 move to the Dutch club. He left Ajax, despite helping them qualify for the UEFA Champions League, to return to England. Brentford acted quickly after Norgaard joined Arsenal. Henderson completed his medical and will sign a two-year deal. The official announcement will wait until next week out of respect for Diogo Jota’s family. Henderson’s former team-mate recently died in a car accident.

A previous report confirmed that Jordan Henderson is leaving Ajax and will be a free agent.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Brentford finished 13th in the Premier League last season and need to strengthen their midfield after losing their captain. Henderson brings lots of experience: he previously captained Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League titles. He has played over 50 times for England. He played 12 matches in the Eredivisie for Ajax last season, showing essential leadership. Henderson’s arrival boosts Brentford’s ambitions, especially after a transitional year.

According to a previous report, Christian Norgaard played 198 games for Brentford.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BRENTFORD AND HENDERSON?

Brentford will face Nottingham Forest in the first match of the Premier League season. Forest finished in 7th place last season, and has qualified for the Conference League. Brentford sit between 11th-14th in pre-season predictions. Henderson is expected to play a central role from the start. Brentford fans will be eager to see how quickly he adapts. Will his experience bring the club closer to a top-half finish? Henderson is also in consideration for England’s squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.

They are close to finalizing their preparations to compete effectively in the Premier League.