5 Players Who Received A Hero's Welcome
2. Thierry Henry - Arsenal
There were just over 12 minutes remaining on the clock, as this frustrating FA Cup tie was meandering to a close. A dogged Leeds United side had played their part in this tussled affair, as an exasperated Wenger tried every combination in an effort to pick the lock but to no avail. Enter Thierry.
Just off the plane following the finalisation of a shock loan deal from MLS side New York Red Bulls, the Yorkshire defence were eluded in the blink of an eye, as he ghosted in behind to collect a perfectly weighted pass, before executing that killer instinct.
''Henry Chance Goal! He may be cast in bronze, but hes still capable of producing truly golden moments! Martin Tyler, January 2012.
It would take a very stoic and emotionless person not to feel the hairs protrude on the back of their neck, as Arsenals record goal-scorer rampaged around the pitch, beating his chest to the cacophony of noise that he had just created. With the supporters in a frenzy, the former Barcelona frontman wrapped Arsene Wenger in a warm embrace, thanking him for this wonderful opportunity he had afforded him a second bite of the cherry.
The love affair between club and player had been cut five years previously, when he had set sail for the trophies and grandeur of Barcelona. While he made the right choice, for a minute or two against Leeds United, the Frenchman was at one with the footballing world. The Emirates pitch in a 3rd round FA cup tie was his arena and a tiresome Championship side whom he had enjoyed much goal-scoring success in the past were his meat.
The match was ultimately decided by Henrys strike, calmly slotted into the far corner, culminating in an emotional post-match interview, whereby he was nominated Man of the Match following only 20 minutes of game-time.