Les Bleus produced little on Monday to suggest a third UEFA European Championship crown might be on its way, but there was some positive news when Thierry Henry revealed that the mystery injury he has been carrying is only a thigh strain and said he was confident of returning against the Netherlands.
Immense presence
Henry has divided opinions in his homeland for years. His elegant style has many fans in raptures, while others accuse him of arrogance and complain he has rarely shown his brilliant best in the blue of France. The 30-year-old has had a difficult season, but certain facts must not be overlooked: Henry is the most prolific player in France's history, he has also set up more goals for his country than the legendary Zinédine Zidane managed – and his immense presence was sorely missed in Zurich last night.
Exceptional strikers
Karim Benzema and Nicolas Anelka are exceptional strikers, bristling with pace and power, yet neither have Henry's presence, personality or know-how. They were starting together for the first time against Romania – and it showed. Henry may not have the legs he used to, but with Benzema and Franck Ribéry buzzing around him that would not matter. He gives the side a focal point, reassures team-mates and worries opponents in equal measure. He is also the man most likely to convert a scoring chance.
Dutch threat
If the FC Barcelona forward does not play against the Oranje on Friday, France could be packing their bags far earlier than they ever imagined. Do you agree, or do you feel Anelka and Benzema deserve another chance? Is Bafétimbi Gomis the answer, or would the out-of-favour David Trezeguet have won it for France last night? What do you think?
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