Jordan Henderson was spotted on Sunday in the Johan Cruyff Arena stands, following the postponement of his Ajax debut due to a rule resulting from the UK’s exit from the European Union. 

The 33-year-old midfielder’s contract with Saudi club Al-Ettifaq was terminated, and on Thursday, he signed with the Dutch team.

The England midfielder committed to the Amsterdam team for two and a half years. 

But even though Henderson’s arrival was met with much fanfare in the Dutch city, Brexit means John van t’ Schip’s side will need to apply for and be approved for a work visa before he can appear.

Ajax defeated RKC Waalwijk 4-1 despite Henderson’s absence, with two goals from Brian Brobbey in the first half.

Jordan Henderson was spotted in the stands watching his new club at Johan Cruyff Arena on Sunday

Henderson watched his new Ajax team-mates in action after his debut was delayed

The England midfielder had signed a two-and-a-half year deal with the Amsterdam outfit

Henderson’s consent will only be a formality in this instance, but it might take up to two weeks to complete, which could mean the midfield player’s debut won’t happen until early February.

After speaking with Gareth Southgate, Henderson expressed his regret to the LGBTQ+ supporters who were offended by his relocation to Saudi Arabia. He also stated that he expects to perform well enough at Ajax to be called up for England’s Euro 2024 squad.

Six months after departing Liverpool for a three-year contract with Al Ettifaq, Henderson made his debut at Ajax’s Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, explaining his U-turn. The 33-year-old midfielder, a champion of the LGBTQ+ community, was accused of betrayal after making that move because same-sex relationships are forbidden in Saudi Arabia.

“I sincerely apologize to anyone from that community who may have been disappointed or upset,” Henderson said on Friday. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also offered Henderson support. I sincerely apologize if I offended anyone or caused them to feel insulted; that was my choice. I never intended to do that.

“At this point, all I want to focus on is being the best player I can be for Ajax.” My opinions have not and will not alter. Once more, I can only offer my apology if someone is disappointed.

Henderson drew more criticism from some who called this a “if you were offended” apology, while Ajax supporters embraced him.

Friday saw the emergence of claims that this shirt is already the most quickly sold in the Dutch team’s history, following Al Ettifaq’s agreement to end his contract in order to make the transfer easier. 

The 33-year-old joins the team in the midst of an incredible run of play that has seen them recover from an incredibly bad start to the season.

Henderson joined Ajax earlier this month after departing Saudi side Al-Ettifaq

But the English midfielder will need a work permit before he can debut in the Eredivisie due to Brexit rules 

At the end of October, the team was in their lowest-ever standing in the Dutch top flight after five losses from their first nine league games. Manager Maurice Steijn was fired, and fan anger peaked.

Since then, though, the team has bounced back nicely under temporary manager Van t’ Schip, winning six of their last eight games to reclaim their spot in the European race. 

Ajax is still competing in the Europa Conference League to win their first continental trophy since 1995.

The club advanced to the competition’s knockout phase playoffs after placing third in their Europa League group. They will take on Norwegian team Bodo/Glimt in February in an attempt to advance to the round of 16.