HARDLY A SURPRISE at this stage, but Arsenal have re-signed all-time top goalscorer Thierry Henry on a short-term loan deal.

The final paperwork was completed on Friday, which means the former French international will be available for the club’s FA Cup tie against Leeds United on Monday.

Manager Arsene Wenger confirmed the deal will run for January and February only and said that Henry can be “a massive asset to the team in the dressing room and on the pitch”.

Perhaps the most interesting quotes came from the player himself. Currently plying his trade with the New York Red Bulls in the MLS, Henry does not expect to start or even play in every game over the coming two months – even with Gervinho and Marouane Chamakh away at the African Nations Cup.

“It is unreal to be honest,” he said. “But when it comes to Arsenal my heart will always do the talking. Once I knew the plan behind it I was OK with it. I am not coming here to be a hero or prove anything. I am just coming here to help.

“People have to understand that. Marouane and Gervinho are going to the Africa Cup of Nations, so I was asked to fill in the gap. It is a loan deal and I’ll be on the bench most of the time. If I can make the bench that is! The Boss has a team here already who are doing something good. I am just going to be part of the squad.”

Henry also reiterated that he will return to the US in time for the new season, which kicks off on March 10th. He will wear the number 12 shirt during his short comeback and he will be looking to add a couple of goals to his current tally of 226 in the club’s colours.

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