First place at last for Henry, as French Player of the Year

IT was a case of third time lucky for France striker Thierry Henry after he was voted French Player of the Year for 2003 by magazine France Football.

The Arsenal star, who finished second behind Zinedine Zidane for the World Football Player of the Year award and second behind Pavel Nedved at the European Football Player of the Year ceremony a week ago, came first this time with a total of 162 points.

Real Madrid talisman Zidane was hot on his heels with 129 points, with Monaco’s talented captain Ludovic Giuly with 67 points.

The judging panel is made up of all the former winners of the award.

It’s the second time Henry has received the accolade having previously received the top prize in 2000.

“It is nice to be ahead of Zizou,” Henry told France Football.

“I have gained a lot of maturity and also brushed up my game tremendously this year.

“You cannot rely on talent alone anymore.

“Unless you are a guy like Diego Maradona; in my opinion it is mental strength and hard work that really make you progress.”