AMSTERDAM, – If Ajax Amsterdam maintain on to their lead within the Dutch prime flight and are topped champions, then captain Jordan Henderson will take pleasure in a lion’s share of the plaudits for his function in returning the previous European champions to the summit of the sport within the Netherlands.
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Ajax have overcome two depressing previous seasons to take a seat 4 factors away from defending champions PSV Eindhoven with three rounds left within the Eredivisie marketing campaign and are inching nearer to the title, with veteran England worldwide Henderson a significant driving pressure.
Victory over NEC Nijmegen at residence on Sunday after which away to FC Groningen subsequent week would see Ajax to a record-extending twenty ninth title.
The 34-year-old Henderson has had an impressive season, skippering the membership whereas on the similar time successful a recall to the England squad.
“He’s a player who, just by example, is able to lead the group and to move all the players in the right direction,” coach Francesco Farioli said earlier this year.
“He is a benchmark for everyone, particularly those who’re counting on work ethic and mentality,” he advised SkySports.
Henderson arrived at Ajax in February final 12 months, not lengthy after the membership had been backside of the desk for the primary time of their historical past and had been searching for a participant to supply management, each on and off the pitch.
However the former Liverpool captain’s first months proved disappointing as he battled harm, and there was an earful of criticism of his performances.
When Farioli took over as coach initially of this season, Henderson was requested to fulfil a brand new function as defensive midfielder.
“It was something different that the coach wanted from my position, both with and without the ball. For me it was great that even at my age that I could learn something new,” Henderson advised reporters on the time.
The swap has paid dividends, with Ajax boasting one of the best defensive statistics within the league with 27 objectives conceded in 31 video games, in stark distinction to the 2023/24 marketing campaign, once they conceded 61 objectives.
The England worldwide’s huge expertise was additionally essential within the encounters in opposition to Ajax’s key rivals. “In the big matches, Henderson is vitally important for Ajax,” mentioned tv analyst and former Ajax star Rafael van der Vaart.
Youthful teammates have spoken about Henderson’s dedication to coaching and restoration and the way he has helped instil a greater work tradition on the membership.
His recall to the England squad in March was additionally a nod to his affect at Ajax, one thing that new supervisor Thomas Tuchel was nicely conscious of.