Arsenal’s Thierry Henry and Arsene Wenger pay tribute to Sunderland’s fans after 2-1 win at Stadium of Light
THIERRY Henry and Arsene Wenger praised Sunderland fans for their sportsmanship in applauding the French legend on to the pitch in his last appearance in England this season.
Henry said of his crucial cameo and winning goal: “It was an amazing feeling.
“It has always been a pleasure to come here to Sunderland.
“When I was warming up the fans near me started clapping.
“I have always found this a very special place to play football.
“It was a fantastic atmosphere and overall it was so special for me, with it being my last game in the Premier League.
“To be able to celebrate with all the Arsenal fans, who have come such a long way – it really was magical.
“Looking at the results today everything seemed to go our way and now people need to keep on going and make sure we stay where we are.”
Wenger said: “I was not surprised that Sunderland fans applauded him. They have done it before.
“They are great fans up here and they appreciate high-quality football and high-quality footballers.”
And rival manager Martin O’Neill took time out to acknowledge one of the most gifted footballers of the modern era.
“Thierry is without doubts one of the greats,” said the Sunderland manager.“
“I’m pleased to hear that Sunderland supporters applauded him and appreciated him. I think he deserves to be appreciated – he’s one of the top five players that have ever played in the Premier League.
Read Graeme Anderson’s full match report, plus more reaction and photos from Sunderland’s cruel defeat to Arsenal, in today’s Sportmail.
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Monday 28 May 2012
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