If Henry was Brazilian, he'd be the current world footballer of the year too

The stats now confirm it: Thierry Henry is Arsenal's best ever attacking player. An improvised back flick control of a long pass by Toure, followed by a deliberately caressed banana shot volley from 20 yards that swerved into the far corner saw him equal Ian Wright's Arsenal goal-scoring record on 21 minutes. Then, 74 minutes into the match in Prague, he latched onto a perfect Pires through ball (really appropriate), took one touch towards goal, and placed it pass the keeper: 186 goals in 303 games.

Record goal-scorer, prolific assist-maker, total team-player, complete sportsmanship with the opposition, winning attitude, sprinting prowess reminiscent of Frankie Fredericks, masterful ball skills at pace, thunderbolt shot potential, clutch shooter; Thierry is a credit to himself because with all this he is ever humble to his teammates, 'the boss', the fans, and the club for giving him a hand when he was down back in the summer of 1999.

I remember first seeing him play for Monaco on Eurosport and being impressed with the enormous passion he had when he scored (he screamed). I later saw him in World Cup 1998 where he was used as a winger and it was clear he was as fast as Anelka. So when we bought him I was delighted: an 'Anelka (who I liked, and hoped a couple of seasons ago would return to Highbury) with fantastic attitude' was my impression of what Henry would bring. He has lived up to this- and then some!

Henry also proved yesterday why he is a worthy Arsenal captain. His arrival lifted his younger teammates who looked more energised and confident with his presence. It also lifted the fans. His first touch was to bring down a long pass onto his chest, and in the same movement pinged a volley that struck a defender for a corner. He then ran towards the corner while urging the fans to really get behind the team- who, just like me, were only too happy to see his determination for the cause, and oblige.

More than ever he did his trademark applauding to teammates for their efforts. During his injury he must have noticed how the likes of Flamini, Fabregas, Clichy, Toure are looking for leadership and encouragement from the more experienced players in the team. As Captain he knows he is the best man to provide this, and he did so last night... long may it last.

I was generally impressed with all the team yesterday. Cygan and Clichy has some rocky moments- but they also had good moments. It was good to see RVP start up front, I feel he is on the verge of exploding as a dangerous striker. His technique is amazing, and his spikiness can be a useful asset against a team that looks to get into a fight, i.e. Man Utd.

Next-up is a thriving Man City: hopefully Sol will be back to further bolster the team.