Henry’s World Cup place in jeopardy

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND fans of a bitter disposition may be pleased to learn that while Giovanni Trapattoni’s men won’t be at South Africa, the man who ended their dreams may not either.

Raymond Domenech has refused to give assurances over Thierry Henry’s place in France’s 23-man squad for this summer’s World Cup finals as the player is struggling to make an impression this season at his club, Barcelona.

The forward was in the squad for France’s last game against Spain, but Domenech says there are no guarantees he’ll make the final cut for the World Cup, despite the fact it was his now infamous handball against Ireland that secured France’s qualification for South Africa.

Domenech said: “It is a question that would arise on May 11 (the date of the initial squad announcement).”

Henry’s place is in jeopardy due to his limited playing time at Barcelona, coupled with the wide array of attacking options at Domenech’s disposal.

“Thierry has been, is (a great player). He does not play, but he is at Barcelona and he plays in a big competition,” added Domenech. “But I cannot help ‘Titi’ in this way.”