Jordan Henderson’s display for Brentford in their 2-2 draw with Chelsea has stunned journalists in the Netherlands, with Johan Derksen branding it “truly incomprehensible”.
Jordan Henderson produced one of his best performances in a Brentford shirt during Saturday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea, providing a pinpoint assist for Kevin Schade’s opener and dictating play from midfield.
The 34-year-old midfielder, who joined from Ajax last year, has quickly become a key figure under new manager Keith Andrews. His transformation has surprised many, particularly in the Netherlands, where his time at Ajax was widely criticised.
Dutch reaction: “Truly incomprehensible”
Dutch journalist Johan Derksen admitted he was left bemused by Henderson’s display:
“I was watching Match of the Day yesterday and I saw that idiot from Ajax playing for Brentford. He suddenly made decisive passes over sixty yards. He played incredibly well. That’s truly incomprehensible.” — Johan Derksen, Vandaag Inside
Jordan Henderson vs Chelsea – key stats
| Stat | Henderson vs Chelsea |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Expected Assists (xA) | 0.03 |
| Touches | 44 |
| Accurate Passes | 24/31 (77%) |
| Key Passes | 1 |
| Crosses (Accurate) | 4 (2) |
| Long Balls (Accurate) | 8 (5) |
| Sofascore Rating | 7.2 |
source: Sofascore – 16 September 2025
Summary: Henderson completed 77% of his passes, played five accurate long balls, and registered one assist in Brentford’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Henderson’s resurgence at Brentford shows how well he fits Andrews’ tactical system:
“Henderson looked revitalised against Chelsea — efficient in possession, aggressive with his long passing, and decisive with that assist for Schade. At Ajax he never convinced, but Brentford are giving him responsibility and freedom. Performances like this prove he still has the quality to influence Premier League matches.”
Key insights
- Henderson set up Brentford’s opener in a 2-2 draw with Chelsea.
- Journalist Johan Derksen called his performance “truly incomprehensible” given his Ajax struggles.
- Registered 1 assist, 77% passing accuracy, and 5 accurate long balls.
- Has quickly established himself as a key player under Keith Andrews.
What’s next
Henderson will be hoping to maintain his strong form when Brentford face Fulham this weekend. If he continues delivering at this level, questions about his Ajax spell may quickly fade into the background.
👉 Is Henderson proving that Brentford, not Ajax, is the right stage for his late-career resurgence?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 16 Sep 2025 13:51
He played his best game for Brentford this season... Unfortunately against us.
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