Henderson gives up Ajax armband; Monaco linger

Jordan Henderson did not wear the captain's armband for Ajax in their Europa League clash against Galatasaray on Thursday as speculation persists about a move to Monaco.

Sources have told ESPN that the Ligue 1 side are pushing to sign the veteran midfielder in the late stages of the January window, and that Henderson wants to leave.

Fuelling that talk, Henderson -- who has captained the Eredivisie giants since February 2024, shortly after a transfer from Al Ettifaq -- gave the armband to goalkeeper Remko Pasveer before Ajax beat Galatasaray 2-1 on Thursday to qualify for the knockout stages.

Henderson, 34, didn't address the media after the match but Pasveer told Ziggo Sport: "Jordan wanted to focus on the match and not on peripheral matters. That was discussed just before the match.

"He doesn't want it to be about him, but about the game. It's good that I can take over from him. That way we're there for each other. If he feels good about this, then that's the best we can do."

Ajax do not want to let Henderson go, sources have told ESPN, but could be forced into a deal to ease their financial issues.

"Every 45 minutes there is news and something comes out," Ajax boss Francesco Farioli said. "Henderson proved himself today as a great player and professional. He played a very good game."

Joking about Henderson's performance corresponding with him not wearing the armband, Fariola added: "Maybe he's a bit lighter now."

Henderson was Liverpool's captain from 2015 until 2023 before surprisingly joining Saudi Premier League side Al Ettifaq.

After just 17 appearances he signed for Ajax, where he has featured 26 times in the league. He has also represented England 81 times, scoring three goals.

Ajax are second in the Eredivisie while Monaco lie third in Ligue 1.