Why Jordan Henderson was ‘not allowed’ to wear his favourite number at Ajax – despite no team-mate having it

JORDAN HENDERSON has been denied his favourite number following his move to Ajax.

The former Liverpool captain completed his transfer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq this week.

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Jordan Henderson’s Ajax shirt is flying off the shelves[/caption]

But he will not be able to wear his favourite No14 shirt which he had for the duration of his Anfield stay.

That is because the number is retired in honour of club legend Johan Cruyff.

Henderson, 33, will instead wear the number six shirt, which he accepted graciously.

He said: “I saw that 14 wasn’t available so initially I thought it was free, so then I was speaking to my friend and I was like ‘I’m sure that’s Cruyff number’ and he said ‘is that not retired?’

“So we googled it and it made sense. I was getting excited for a little bit I thought it was meant to be but then it quickly changed.

“It makes total sense and to be honest I’m not bothered about numbers. 14 was big for me at Liverpool but I’ve had loads of numbers throughout my career.”

Henderson’s move to Ajax is proving very popular amongst the fanbase, with supporters keen to see the England international in action.

His shirt is flying off the shelves too and is already the fastest-selling player shirt in the club’s history – thanks in part to a 40 per cent discount.

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Ajax fans can also get their hands on Henderson shirt-themed mugs, cushions, towels and even duvet covers.

Henderson revealed his sadness after leaving Al-Ettifaq, despite failing to score for the Saudi side in 19 appearances.

The midfielder signed for Al-Ettifaq on a contract worth £700,000-a-week.

But Henderson is not expected to see a single penny from his time in Saudi Arabia.

SunSport understands that this is because he has agreed to forgo any of his owed salary so he can leave the club and walk away from his three-year deal.