Bergkamo return boosts Henry
(sportinglife.com)
Updated: 2005-03-09 10:10

Thierry Henry hailed Dennis Bergkamp as his best ever strike partner as he tipped the Dutchman to mastermind Arsenal's Champions League recovery against Bayern Munich on Wednesday night.

Thierry Henry has insisted the return of fellow striker Dennis Bergkamp, seen here in February 2005, can provide the spark that will see Premiership champions Arsenal overturn a 3-1 Champions League deficit against Bayern Munich at Highbury.[AFP]

Bergkamp missed the first leg in Germany as he does not fly, with Freddie Ljungberg forced into emergency service behind Henry.

The Gunners duly struggled to make any attacking impression until Kolo Toure's late strike reduced the deficit to 3-1.

Bergkamp, who has also just completed a domestic three-match ban, will nevertheless be back for the second leg at Highbury tomorrow - and Henry is relishing his return.

"I think Dennis will change some stuff. When he plays, I play differently because, whatever you do, the guy sees you," the 27-year-old declared.

"It's always a help when you have that kind of player because he links the midfield and the attack."

Henry has linked up with the likes of David Trezeguet and Zinedine Zidane at international level, as well as George Weah and Kanu in club football.

However, he insisted: "I have played with a lot of players - and it's difficult for me to say this - but Dennis is the best player that I have ever played with as a partner.

"To play with him is just a dream for a striker because, as soon as he sees you, he gives you the ball.

" More often than not, he gives you a good ball. That's why you are more than happy."

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is also relieved to the veteran available, having commented at the weekend that the Dutchman's unavailability for away European ties had cost his side dearly in the Champions League.

After all, in the 35 Champions League ties that Bergkamp has played for Arsenal, they have won 18, drawn 12 and lost just five.

In the 32 Champions League ties that he has missed, albeit mainly away games, they have won just nine, as well as drawing seven and losing 16.

"Dennis has a scientific brain on the football pitch.

"That's needed to find the space, especially when you are playing at home. He can produce it," observed Wenger.

"Dennis owes us nothing because he had given us a lot. But we want more from him.

"It means a lot to him as well. He's had a great career but we want him to achieve the Champions League as well."

Bergkamp, 35, had originally been due to retire at the end of this season but is ready to consider a final flourish next year.

Wenger added: "I've been lucky to work with him in my career.

"When he's there, it's more reassuring for Thierry because he has Dennis to provide the chances.

"We've had great games and results without Dennis but when it comes to a game where you need his experience, knowledge and attacking flair, you want him to be there."

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