Henry: Keane is no thug

Thierry Henry has refuted suggestions Roy Keane is a 'thug'.

The Arsenal striker has clashed numerous times with the Manchester United ball-winner, however Wednesday's World Cup qualifying clash between France and Ireland is set to raise the bar.

Henry has acknowledged Keane is strong in the challenge and his aggressive nature scares you on the pitch, but his leadership qualities are second to none.

"People often talk about Roy Keane as if he was a hooligan, but the lad knows how to play football," Henry told The Sun.

"Yes, he is aggressive. Yes, he is cantankerous. Yes, if the ball is between him and you in midfield, he makes you jump.

"But beyond that, he is a super footballer. He scores, he influences his team and the crowd.

"He'll be respected for ever. He is a football legend with Republic of Ireland and Manchester United."

France go to Lansdowne Road knowing defeat could severely hinder their chances of winning Group Four in the race for a place in next year's World Cup finals.