RIYADH, Jan 19 — Steven Gerrard signed a new deal with Al-Ettifaq to remain as coach until 2027 on Thursday, just moments after former Liverpool teammate Jordan Henderson left the Saudi club.

The 43-year-old Gerrard arrived at Al-Ettifaq last July on a two-year deal but his team are a modest eighth in the Pro League table, 28 points behind leaders Al-Hilal.

"This is very pleasing for myself and my family and feels like recognition for a lot of hard work and commitment,” said former England captain Gerrard in a statement.

"We knew at the beginning this was a big job and a challenging job, but a lot has been achieved.”

He added: "I also understand my position, it’s a results business. I never take that for granted. I understand where we are in the league, but I am very confident we will improve.”

Earlier Thursday, 33-year-old Henderson left Al-Ettifaq after only six months at the club to join faltering Dutch giants Ajax.

Henderson, like Gerrard a former Liverpool captain, was earning a reported £700,000 (US$887,000) per week in the kingdom.

His move to Saudi sparked accusations of hypocrisy given Henderson’s outspoken support for the LGBT+ community.

Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia. — AFP