Henry: Wenger must stay

It's not just important that Arsene stays - it is vital

Thierry Henry
Arsenal striker

Thierry Henry has urged manager Arsene Wenger to stay at Arsenal.

The Gunners boss is believed to be unhappy at the limited funds being made available to him for summer signings.

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has promised Wenger £10m in addition to money raised by selling players.

But the Frenchman, who has been at Highbury for almost seven years, fears he will need more to compete with Manchester United.

Henry has pleaded with the club's board to do all they can to keep Wenger, captain Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires, who have been linked with moves to Spain.

"Arsene Wenger is the main man," said Henry. "It's not just important that he stays - it is vital.

"I really enjoy working with him and all the players do, because he is such a great coach.

"In the last two years we have won the Double and then the FA Cup.

"I know I'll be here next year and for a long time to come. I'd also like my French pals Patrick Vieira and Robert Pires to do the same and sign new deals.

"Any team in the world would like them in their side and we have both.

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"Now it's up to them and the club."

Henry insisted it was important for the Gunners to focus on next season after the disappointment of losing out on the title to Manchester United.

"We must remember the positives and not think we failed," said Henry, who signed a contract extension keeping him at Highbury until 2007.

"The aim is to do even better - it doesn't matter United are trying to sign the likes of Ronaldinho."

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