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It's 'unreal' to be back, says Henry after sealing emotional return to Arsenal

Thierry Henry revealed his joy after completing his return to Arsenal.
The Gunners legend has agreed a two-month loan switch from US side New York Red Bulls.
He said: 'It is unreal to be honest. But when it comes to Arsenal my heart will always do the talking.

Look who's back: Henry poses in his No 12 shirt

 

'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.
'For me being able to come here and train, being in the dressing room and seeing all the training staff, I have no words to describe it. To wear the jersey one more time, I can only be honoured.
'People might think I am just saying that, but when I left this club I cried, I cried for the statue. I haven't cried a lot in my career, but when I do it seems that something is happening with Arsenal.
'In my time here I always tried to be honest, and I think the fans can see that. When I am happy, I am happy and when I am not they can see it too.
'The fans did recognise that they could read me. It's just me. I can be a pain at times, but I love the club. They say love is blind, but it is difficult for me to say no to Arsenal.'

Shooting boots: Henry is watched by Arsene Wenger on Friday

Legend: Henry can expect a hero's welcome when he runs out at the Emirates

Boss Arsene Wenger said: 'I am very happy. It was my desire and Thierry’s desire. We will have Thierry for January and in February. Then he will go back to the United States.
'I am sure during these two months he will be a massive asset to the team in the dressing room and on the pitch. He can be relaxed, not under too much pressure and be a tremendous help to the team.
'You cannot take away from people what they have done, and what he has delivered will stay forever. It can just make the statue a bit bigger. Let us hope he will do that.
'Thierry is a world-class player and even at this club a player of that dimension is always very difficult to find, especially at this period of the season. He can just add something more to the team.
'Who would turn down a player of his quality? We have a good spirit in the side and he will add something more, experience-wise, and on the nervy side as well, when we are under pressure.
'That is a good addition because he knows the club, he knows the league, and it is only positive.'

Fans' favourite: Henry has a status outside the Emirates

The switch was held up over negotiations over his insurance package but it has now been agreed.
The loan deal has been signed until February 16, although Arsenal have the option of a further 10 days.
The deal had to be completed by midday on Friday if they wanted him to be available for the FA Cup third-round clash with Leeds on Monday.
Arsenal host Championship side Leeds at the Emirates and Henry is expected to play a role in the game.
He has a spectacular scoring record of 11 goals in as many games against Leeds.
A picture of Henry in the latest Arsenal shirt was accidently posted on the club's official website last week.
The image at first appeared in a story in which current star striker Robin van Persie heaped praise on the new arrival, before it was replaced by a previously released image of Henry in training.