Ex-Liverpool assistant's comments show his plan backfired as transfer 'terminated'

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I don't have access to the specific Liverpool Echo article at that URL. However, I can provide a summary based on the related search results about James McConnell's situation at Ajax, which appear to cover the same story: --- **James McConnell's Ajax Loan Ends in Failure** Liverpool's young midfielder James McConnell is set to have his loan spell at Ajax terminated after the arrangement failed to deliver the expected development opportunity.[1][2] The 21-year-old joined the Dutch club on a season-long loan during the summer transfer window following a new five-year contract with Liverpool, with hopes that increased playing time would accelerate his progression.[1] However, the loan quickly deteriorated following the dismissal of John Heitinga, the Ajax manager and former Liverpool assistant, in early November.[1][2] Since Heitinga's departure, McConnell has been largely frozen out, making only seven first-team appearances over six months and missing matches in recent weeks due to a combination of limited opportunities and injury.[1][2] Liverpool has grown dissatisfied with McConnell's stagnated development and plans to recall him in January.[2] The club is now exploring options for another loan spell to ensure the midfielder receives the regular playing time necessary for his continued growth.[1][2] Several Championship clubs have expressed interest in securing McConnell on loan, including West Brom, Derby County, Oxford United, and Swansea City.[1][2][3] Swansea presents a particularly intriguing option, as former Liverpool coach Vitor Matos was recently appointed as the club's head coach and could potentially facilitate a reunion that benefits McConnell's career prospects.[3] At 21 years old, McConnell has limited senior experience with just 20 competitive appearances to his name.[2] The failed Ajax loan represents a critical juncture in his development, making it imperative that Liverpool secures him a new loan at a club committed to providing consistent first-team football in 2026.