Henry never planned Arsenal heroics

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has admitted that he never imagined scoring the winner in his loan side’s FA Cup third round clash with Leeds.

The former France international came on as a second-half substitute to mark his return to the club on loan from the New York Red Bulls, tucking away the game’s only goal in the 77th minute.

“I never thought I would play for Arsenal again, and I never thought I would score the winning goal tonight,” the forward told ESPN after the match.

He responded modestly when told of his welcome, responding to suggestions that he returned as a hero by adding: “That wasn’t the plan. I just wanted to come and help the team every day.”

Henry said he understood the importance of taking his chance in front of goal against a stingy Leeds defence, when he was put through by Alex Song.

“With time, you know that one opportunity is very important,” the Red Bulls striker said.

“The team played well. It’s never an easy tie. They (Leeds) came to defend and the fans were frustrated sometimes, but we did the job.”

“You never know when you will have a second one, if you have a second. You have to make sure you take it, and I took it well.”

The 1-0 win sends Arsenal through to the fourth round of the FA Cup, where they will take on Premier League rivals Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.