• Premier League

Henry: Life goes on if RvP heads for exit door

ESPN staff
July 31, 2012
Thierry Henry is an Arsenal legend © PA Photos
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Arsenal legend Thierry Henry says the club will overcome the departure of Robin van Persie if, as expected, the skipper leaves Emirates Stadium after announcing earlier this summer that he would not sign a new contract.

Netherlands international Van Persie, the north Londoners' captain, has been heavily linked with a move to Juventus or either Manchester City or Manchester United.

He was the Premier League's top scorer last season, but Henry - who spent eight years at Arsenal and returned on loan last season - said Arsene Wenger's team could move on without him.

"We hope he stays," Henry, who now plays for New York Red Bulls, told Sky Sports News. "I don't know exactly what is happening but, as an Arsenal fan, I want him to stay.

"He is still an Arsenal player, and the boss has to deal with it. I just want Arsenal to do well. Robin will do what he will do and we'll see. When I left, everybody cried... but everyone comes and goes."

Henry said the Gunners would be boosted by the return of Jack Wilshere, who is set to make a comeback in October after completing his recovery from ankle and knee problems.

"You want Jack Wilshere around," he said. "He reminds me of when I first arrived when the old guard was there. He's an Arsenal fan in the first place, and you need this type of player around in the dressing room.

"It's not only that he's an Arsenal fan, and not only an Englishman, but he's a good player - it's as simple as that. What a shame that he stopped a bit, because he was on his way."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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