As footballing role models go, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more exemplary figure than Thierry Henry.
Not only did our record goalscorer win every major club honour during a trophy-laden career, he also inspired a whole generation of French youngsters by winning the World Cup and the European Championship in the space of two years.
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Jeff Reine-Adelaide was one of those children who idolised Henry growing up, and has since had the chance to meet and be coached by him at under-19 level.
“All players and children should look at how Henry and Robert Pires conduct themselves nowadays because they are exemplary,” the 19-year-old told Arsenal Player.
“They are straightforward, always ready to chat with us and have a laugh. They spend a lot of time with the young players, talking things through and giving advice.
“Away from the pitch, I’ve gone out for a meal with Thierry Henry two or three times and he is a really great guy. He has always been very supportive to me and I am grateful to him for that.
“I always admired Henry’s - I don’t want to use the word arrogance - his assuredness, his confidence. He knew exactly who he was. He had such confidence and he was a leader. As for Pires, I admired the fact that he kept it simple on the pitch, defended well and was incredibly skilful too.”
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