Jordan Henderson stripped of Ajax captaincy and REFUSES interview as saga takes ugly turn

Ajax captain Jordan Henderson had the armband taken off him for Thursday night’s Europa League clash with Galatasaray after asking for permission to pursue a move to AS Monaco

Jordan Henderson has been STRIPPED of the Ajax captaincy after his bid to force a departure away from the Dutch club took a dramatic turn.

Henderson had the skipper’s armband taken off him for tonight’s Europa League clash with Galatasaray after demanding a move to Monaco.

Coach Francesco Faroili was told by club bosses that he was free to select the former Liverpool midfielder – but he then decided to make keeper Remco Pasveer captain for the evening. Henderson played for 75 minutes before being forced off by cramp.

The 34-year-old’s relationship with Ajax has soured after he asked to be released from a contract that runs until the summer of 2026.

Henderson told the Amsterdam club that he fancies another crack at the Champions League with Monaco – and he will also get an increase on the £90,000-a-week wage deal that currently makes him the highest-paid player in Holland.

But Ajax were shocked by the request – and have told him they have no intention of allowing him to leave just a year after they rescued him from Al-Ettifaq following his failure to settle in the Saudi Pro-League.

Henderson struggled for form and fitness on his arrival at Ajax but has been a key performer this season. He has made 43 appearances for the Dutch club and has made eight assists. The former Liverpool skipper’s influence in big games this season has been a big factor.

Ajax have told him they will consider his request to leave in the summer – but the opportunity to join Monaco may then be lost.

Henderson refused to be interviewed on Dutch TV after the game, with stand-in skipper Pasveer confirming: “Jordan was on the team sheet as captain, but he had external factors influencing him.”

Former Dutch international Wesley Sneijder said: “There is a lot happening behind the scenes. I fear this may be Henderson’s last match after all.”

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