Wenger tips Henry for Euro award

The brace took the Frenchman's tally to five goals in two games as Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the table to four points after netting a brilliant hat-trick in the Champions League win over Roma in midweek.

Henry was named among the 50 candidates for the honour of European Footballer of the Year.

Wenger believes Henry should beat favourite Ronaldo to the award despite failing to impress at the World Cup, and insists his striker is better than Manchester United's Ruud van Nistelrooy.

"Thierry has had an outstanding performance again and an outstanding week," said Wenger.

"He should certainly be footballer of the year in this country, as for footballer of the season, we will have to be patient and see.

"European Footballer of the Year? I'd say he's in contention certainly."

"Ronaldo was the player of the World Cup but has not played much before or after. The World Cup is three weeks and the year is 52 weeks.

"When you want to see a good player, you ask how many games did you play in the season and how many titles did you win. They are the real champions."

"Thierry was leading scorer in the Premiership last season and now he has scored five times in two big games.

"He is physically extremely strong and recovers so well. You need a special strength to deliver that kind of performance."

When asked of Sir Alex Ferguson claim that van Nistelrooy was the Premiership's leading striker, Wenger added: "I always think that my players are the best."