Xuenou > Sports > Virgil van Dijk reacts to ‘legend’ Jordan Henderson quitting Liverpool for Saudi Arabia
Virgil van Dijk reacts to ‘legend’ Jordan Henderson quitting Liverpool for Saudi Arabia
Virgil van Dijk reacts to 'legend' Jordan Henderson quitting Liverpool for Saudi Arabia,Henderson has ended his 12-year stay at Liverpool in favour of accepting a mega-money contract un Saudi Arabia with Steven Gerrard-managed Al-Ettifaq

Virgil van Dijk reacts to ‘legend’ Jordan Henderson quitting Liverpool for Saudi Arabia

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has bid farewell to the club after 12 years, prompting a huge number of tributes from his former and current teammates.

Among those paying homage to Henderson is Virgil van Dijk, who described him as a "captain, leader, and legend" following the confirmation of his departure from Liverpool. Henderson's decision to accept a lucrative offer from Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, where he will reunite with former teammate Steven Gerrard, marks the end of an era for the midfielder.

Henderson played a pivotal role in Liverpool's success during his time at Anfield, winning the Premier League and Champions League along with several domestic cups. Van Dijk's tribute reflects the sentiment shared by many of Henderson's colleagues, both past and present, reports the Mirror.

Cody Gakpo, who played alongside Henderson for a few months after joining Liverpool in January, stated: "Thank you, Captain." Reds youngster Stefan Bajcetic echoed that message, saying: "Thank you for everything, Captain."

READ MORE: Chelsea could still hijack Liverpool's Romeo Lavia move despite Reds closing in

Henderson's journey at Liverpool was not without its challenges. Former manager Brendan Rodgers was initially willing to let him go, but the England international chose to stay and fight for his place in the team.

The 33-year-old's perseverance paid off, as he became a mainstay in the midfield and achieved numerous individual and team honours. Former teammate Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also wished Henderson well, referring to him as a "legend" while England colleague Reece James sent his best wishes, saying: "Good luck, mate. Legend forever."

Van Dijk in action during Liverpool's pre-season
Van Dijk in action during Liverpool's pre-season (Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Henderson's journey with Liverpool began in 2011 when he joined from Sunderland, and he quickly established himself as a key player. Over the years, he made 492 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 33 goals.

In 2020, he was named the FWA Footballer of the Year and the club's Fan's Player of the Year after leading the Merseyside club to their first league title in 30 years. Henderson's departure adds to the exodus of midfielders from Liverpool, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita, and James Milner also leaving the club this summer.

Meanwhile, Fabinho is expected to follow Henderson to Saudi Arabaia. In response to these departures, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made significant signings, including Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, for a combined fee of nearly £100 million. The pursuit of Southampton's Romeo Lavia, who is expected to leave the south coast club following their relegation, is ongoing.

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