Ajax manager Francesco Farioli has spoken out on Jordan Henderson amid the midfielder’s links to Sunderland.
Sunderland are being linked with Jordan Henderson ahead of the January transfer window.
It comes after what’s been a turbulent past year or so for the 34-year-old Sunderland academy graduate.
His move to Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq was short-lived. Henderson played just 19 games for Steven Gerrard’s side before returning to Europe with Ajax.
It’s since been suggested that Henderson is unsettled at Ajax, and that he’s not getting enough game time.
But speaking to Sunderland AFC News recently, Dutch football expert Michael Statham explained how Ajax under Francesco Farioli like to rotate most games.
Statham did however say that he thinks Henderson would be keen on a Sunderland return at some point in his career.
His contract at Ajax runs until the summer of 2026. But he’d no doubt have to take a huge wage cut to make an emotional return to the Stadium of Light.
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Ajax boss breaks silence on Jordan Henderson amid Sunderland links
Now, Ajax boss Farioli, who coincidently was linked with Sunderland last year, has responded to the rumours linking Henderson with Sunderland.
Farioli has given a somewhat cryptic stance on Henderson, neither confirming nor denying that he’d like to keep him.
The Italian boss has simply sung his praises of Henderson and of his leadership skills within the team.
He’s quoted by Tribal Football as saying: “He [Henderson] is an exceptional player who possesses great quality and leadership.
“Having captained his team to a Champions League victory, I believe he can effectively communicate the essence of a winning mentality and a strong work ethic.
“There are many valuable ways in which he can make a significant contribution to a young team like ours.”
Is the door open for Jordan Henderson to leave Ajax
Farioli’s comments appear somewhat cryptic, and they could be interpreted in different ways.
Many outlets are reporting that Farioli’s above comments are a clear indicator that he wants to keep him at the club.
But Farioli doesn’t actually say that as such. Instead, he just speaks highly of Henderson and what he brings to the side.
His comments could in fact be interpreted as the opposite. Farioli not directly answering the question of whether or not he wants to keep Henderson could suggest that the door’s open for him to leave.
Henderson is no doubt a huge name on the wage bill and if he is playing a rotational role this season, it might make sense for Ajax to move him on, should the opportunity arise.
But whether or not Sunderland come in for the midfielder remains to be seen.