‘Sunderland stance revealed as Jordan Henderson links intensify’
Jordan Henderson has been linked with a move back to Sunderland and now the club have confirmed their position over the transfer rumour.
Henderson started his career at the Black Cats, coming through the club’s academy before leaving for Liverpool in 2011.
The 35-year-old won the Premier League and Champions League in his time at Anfield and became club captain after Steven Gerrard called time on his playing career.
The midfielder made a controversial move to Saudi Arabia in 2023, before joining Dutch giants Ajax a year later.
Dream reunion off the table
Henderson’s Ajax contract has now expired and the England international is looking for his next move with hopes of making Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad next summer.
He had been linked with a move back to The Stadium of Light but now the Sunderland Echo states the club signing Henderson is ‘highly unlikely’ at this stage.
| Appearances | 57 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 9 |
Manager Regis Le Bris has already bolstered his midfield with the signings of Habib Diarra from Strasbourg and Noah Sadiki from Union SG.
Sunderland will be competing in the Premier League for the first time in eight years when they kick-off against West Ham next month.
Henderson Prem return could still be on
Football Insider Verdict
Henderson now faces a crucial decision in the next stage of his career if he wants to be included in Tuchel’s World Cup squad.
The German did select Henderson in his latest squad for games against Andorra and Senegal, but there have been critics over his inclusion.
England though do need experience at the tournament next summer, which Henderson could provide.
However, his lack of creativity from deep is an issue which would need to be addressed.
Younger midfielders like Adam Wharton, Curtis Jones and Kobbie Mainoo should be given opportunities to impress over Henderson, some supporters argue.
Sunderland’s decision to not offer Henderson a return to the Stadium of Light is a blow, as Le Bris has prioritised other signings to strengthen his squad.
Henderson requires regular playing time first and Nottingham Forest and Marseille are two clubs that have expressed interest.
Both sides can offer Henderson European football next season and it remains to be seen where the former Liverpool player decides to go.
Ultimately his move to Saudi Arabia did not work out and his spell at Ajax was thought by many to also be unsuccessful.
Henderson is now playing catch up and needs to impress to convince supporters he deserves to be in the World Cup squad.