Jordan Henderson has revealed how his surprise move to Chelsea came about, signing a two-year deal with the Blues on a free transfer from Brentford. The 36-year-old midfielder, who spent just one season at Brentford, was one of several unexpected arrivals at Stamford Bridge this summer.
Henderson's reasons for joining Chelsea
Henderson admitted that the opportunity to join a club of Chelsea's stature was too good to turn down, especially with Xabi Alonso as manager. He also praised the club's owners for their ambition.
'Given the size of the club, the manager, who I have great admiration for, and the quality of the players, this was a huge opportunity I couldn't turn down,' said the England midfielder. 'I was also so impressed with how much the ownership want Chelsea to be successful and move in the right direction.'
'For me, it's about giving everything every single day, both on and off the field, to help the players around me and the team as much as possible. I'm very excited to get going.'
Other surprising signings
Alongside Henderson, Chelsea also brought in 35-year-old Danny Welbeck from Brighton for £5m. Welbeck, a former Manchester United and Arsenal forward, expressed his pride at joining the club.
'When you hear of the interest from Chelsea, it's something that fills you with such immense pride,' Welbeck said. 'Knowing the history of Chelsea, it's a club that wants to win trophies and is pushing to do that every single season.'
'I'm really honoured to come to a club of this stature at what feels like a really exciting time. I know a few of the boys already, and I've had fantastic conversations with the manager and already feel that connection. I've got that fire in my belly, and I'm ready to give it everything for this club to make everyone at Chelsea, and the supporters, proud.'
Henderson's recent career
Henderson impressed at Brentford last season, playing 34 games across all competitions and earning a spot in England's World Cup squad. He came on against Panama in the group stage, becoming the first England player to feature in four World Cups. However, his tournament took a bizarre turn when he fell while jumping over an advertising hoarding after the last 16 win over Mexico, requiring surgery on a forearm injury despite being an unused substitute.
What's next for Chelsea
Chelsea continue their pre-season with friendlies against Juventus and AC Milan, before Xabi Alonso takes charge of his first Premier League game away to Fulham on August 24.
