It is widely recognised that when a former player returns to the ground where he once played his trade he is handed a hostile reception.
Yet if that former player returns and dons the shirt for a second spell they are embraced with open arms. It is safe to say this will certainly be the case at the Emirates.
Arsene Wenger has revealed that Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is close to clinching an amazing return to the club by re-signing on loan for 2 months from MLS outfit New York Red Bulls. Despite the club revelling in the magnificent form of striker Robin Van Persie and his goal scoring prowess, the return of many fans idol will no doubt boost Arsenal in their quest for that much desired top four finish.
Henry has been training with the London based club since the end of the American domestic season. He will be keen to pick up where he left off, and there’s no doubt that in this situation no first impressions need to be created on his debut (if you can call it that).
Wenger revealed that Henry, whose dream return is now based on the reliance of securing an insurance deal with his current club, will not be the player Arsenal fans remember from his first stint at the club.
Yes, The Gunners boss may be right in what he is trying to tell the supporters, yet they will look beyond that, firmly remembering the man who caught the eye of the Premier League with his blistering pace, majestic skill and deadly finishing.
Part of that famous invincible side who in 2003-2004 grasped the Premier League title with an unbeaten run lasting all season, Henry’s anticipated arrival will have many Gunner’s bursting at the seam with excitement.
Van Persie cannot be expected to lead the line on his own continuously throughout the season, and with Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho departing for the African Nations, Henry will be a ideal fit to step off the bench for at least the final 20 minutes of a game.
The Frenchman made an emotional return earlier this month when the club unveiled a statue commemorating his amazing talent and service to the club during his 10 year spell at the club, amounting an incredible 174 Premier League goals.
There will be not one person, supporter, player or coaching staff who will not embrace the return of Henry with warmth and gratitude.
Arsenal travel to Fulham on January 2nd in their first fixture of 2012. It is not yet clear whether Henry’s deal will be finalised, however with the deal looking a certainty, it could be the setting for one of footballs greatest comebacks.
The most fitting moment however will be when he crosses the dusted white touchline of the sacred Emirates pitch. Coincidentally, Henry’s first possible home fixture could come against Manchester United, who Arsenal famously fought tooth and nail against for the Premier League title at the start of the last decade.
The arrival will bring a new found spirit to the club, and with Henry to support the Premier League’s top goal scorer, the club look to have pulled a master stroke in securing his return. Just the New Years cheer all Gunners required.
JOSH SWEETMAN LE-MAY
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