JORDAN HENDERSON has revealed why he lashed out at Ajax teammate Bertrand Traore in last night’s Europa League win over Besiktas.
Former Liverpool captain Henderson played all 90 minutes as his Dutch side fired four goals past the Turkish visitors.
The result delighted Ajax fans after Saturday’s disappointing Eredivisie draw against Go Ahead Eagles.
But supporters were left shocked when Henderson squared up to Ajax winger Traore on the pitch.
The former England midfielder was seething when Traore committed a silly challenge with his side 3-0 up.
Henderson shouted at the ex-Chelsea and Aston Villa forward as teammates stepped in to drag him away.
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Traore shouted after Henderson as the veteran trudged back while still mouthing off.
But the bust-up did not affect Ajax’s performance as they managed to grab another goal at home.
And speaking afterwards, Hendo insisted there was no bad blood between him and Traore, insisting he was merely trying to keep standards high on the field.
Henderson said: “If you’ve seen me play over the years, that’s normal for me.
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“After the whistle, we jumped into each other’s arms straight away. It’s still football. Being 3-0 up is fine, but conceding one goal can turn the game around.
“We always have to be alert and sharp and if you sometimes have a discussion with someone, it keeps everyone sharp.”
Henderson only joined Ajax in January after cutting short his dismal move to Saudi side Al-Ettifaq.
The ace failed to settle under Steven Gerrard after moving to the Middle East from Liverpool last summer.
And he has already become Ajax captain after just 21 appearances in the Dutch capital.
Henderson, who also won 81 caps for England, will hoping to replicate some of his Liverpool success at Ajax.
He made 492 appearances for the Reds while winning a Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Club World Cup under Jurgen Klopp.
And Henderson also showed his loyalty to Ajax by refusing a move away in the summer following reported interest from several European sides.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
