Friday 24 February 2017 13:59, UK
Thierry Henry has given his advice to Wayne Rooney, saying the Manchester United captain's next move must be one that makes him and his family happy.
The club's record goalscorer released a statement on Thursday evening to confirm he will remain at Old Trafford for the rest of the season, after his agent spent time in Asia holding talks with interested Chinese Super League clubs.
Rooney has 18 months remaining on his contract and looks set to make a decision about his future this summer, but former Arsenal striker Henry says he should ignore speculation and focus on making his family happy.
"I would advise him to do what he wants to do," Henry said on Sky Sports News HQ.
"Stop listening to everybody and be happy. You've been a great servant and if he wants to go to China, then go to China if that's what is going to make you happy and your family happy.
"You gave a lot to football, not only English football but football in general, so at the end of the day, think about it with your family, your coach and your team and do what you have to do.
"We all have an opinion of where he should go, but let him choose and let him be him. I think he deserves that."
He added: "We have always had an opinion on what Wayne Rooney should do. Let's see what he's going to do.
"I know people say he is going there too early and should go back to Everton - but if he goes there and things are not going well they'll say he should have gone to China.
"Be happy, you gave a lot to the game. You don't owe anyone anything."
Henry also praised Jose Mourinho's handling of the situation as speculation over his captain grew ahead of the closure of the Chinese transfer window next Tuesday.
The Manchester United boss insisted he would allow the forward, who joined from Everton in 2004, to make the final decision.
"I think Jose Mourinho assessed it very well," Henry added. "The way he is managing this team this season is, for me, very good. They are coming back extremely well and he dealt with the Rooney situation well.
"At the end of the day, it is Wayne Rooney's decision. He reached a level where you can understand it's his decision. We are not talking about a guy who gave you a season or even three years, we are talking about a guy who gave you 12 at the highest level.
"When you have the likes of Jose Mourinho saying 'it is his decision and whatever he is going to do we have to respect it because he gave a lot to that club'.
"If he leaves, Manchester United will always be Manchester United. We saw amazing players leave and the club remained.
"The fact Mourinho understands he has to leave it to him, that is a sign, as we all know, of a great coach."
