Henry ruled out of clash with Chelsea

Thierry Henry has been ruled out of Arsenal's FA Cup fifth-round tie against Chelsea due to a foot injury.

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry was tonight ruled out of the Gunners’ FA Cup fifth-round tie against Chelsea because of injury.

Henry, who has also pulled out of the France squad to play Belgium next Wednesday, sustained a bruised foot in the midweek victory against Southampton and the decision was taken after training today not to take any risks with his fitness.

Arsenal are therefore set to start with either new signing Jose Reyes or teenager David Bentley up front alongside Dennis Bergkamp in tomorrow’s game at Highbury.

And in a further worry for manager Arsene Wenger, key defender Sol Campbell faces a late fitness test on a groin injury.

Henry has actually played only a peripheral role in early rounds of the FA Cup in recent seasons.

He was even left on the bench at this stage last season for the fifth-round tie at Manchester United, which Arsenal won en route to their final success over Southampton.