Robin van Persie has hailed Thierry Henry's 'brave' decision to rejoin Arsenal and is excited to be reunited with his old team-mate.
Dutchman keen to play alongside Gunners legend
Robin van Persie has hailed Thierry Henry's 'brave' decision to return to Arsenal and is looking forward to being reunited with his former team-mate on the pitch.
The Frenchman, a Gunners legend after spending eight seasons in North London before leaving for Barcelona in 2007, has agreed a two-month loan spell at Emirates Stadium from Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls.
Premier League top-scorer Van Persie, who beat Henry's club record of 34 goals in a calendar year with his New Year's Eve winner against QPR, is excited to welcome his fellow forward back to the club.
Brave
The Dutchman said: "I asked him a couple of weeks ago. I had a little cheeky question and asked whether he was willing to come back.
"Everyone has been working on him over the last couple of weeks and for him to come back is so brave. He got a statue here last month and he has proved everything to us. He loves the game which is why he wants to come back.
"That tells you everything how he is, in terms of what type of human he is and what type of player. He wants to help us out.
"I am looking forward to it and I hope we can play together. He is unbelievable, even in training. He had a couple of sessions and - I don't want to put too much pressure on him - but he is looking right up there.
"It will be good for everyone. It is a massive joy to play and train with him. I am excited too. It's like 'Oh yes, Thierry is back, let's have fun'."
Henry's move will not be cleared in time for Monday's trip to Fulham but he could feature in next week's FA Cup clash against Leeds.
Asked whether the Frenchman could become a permanent fixture should his loan spell prove a success, Van Persie added: "I think you have to look at the two months first.
"We have to say thank you to New York Red Bulls as well. Everyone is really pleased he's here for two months and we'll go from here."
Record
Van Persie was delighted to surpass Henry's scoring record after finishing 2011 with 35 goals - one less than Alan Shearer's overall record tally.
The Netherlands international, who has 21 goals to his name this season, said: "Thierry, in my opinion, is Arsenal's best-ever player. He set that record, is an unbelievable player and on this one, I have just beaten him! I fell one short of Shearer's record but maybe next year.
"Yes, 2011 has been fantastic. And, it was about time! I have had some knocks in the past but 2011 was clear with no injuries and I could enjoy myself. I was playing, having fun - as everyone could see."
