Wenger denies Ferguson's Henry claims

Arsene Wenger has reacted to claims of subterfuge from Alex Ferguson by reiterating that Thierry Henry is not fit to play in the FA Cup final.

Manchester United boss Ferguson insists his squad will prepare to face Henry in Saturday’s match at the Millennium Stadium, despite Wenger claiming earlier in the week that the Frenchman was no longer part of his plans.

Arsenal stress that Henry has suffered a recurrence of an old Achilles injury, but Ferguson is sceptical of their claims he has no chance of appearing in Cardiff.

“We are not liars,” said Wenger.

“He [Ferguson] can prepare his team to face us with Henry but I can assure everyone he is not going to play.

“I am sure Ferguson will try and pick the strongest team he can, just as I will try to pick the strongest team I can. But I can say for sure Henry will not play.”

Wenger was replying to claims yesterday from Ferguson, when the Scot admitted he was finding it hard to take Arsenal at their word.

French frontman Henry has played only 45 minutes in the past five weeks, as a second-half substitute in last week’s 7-0 victory over Everton.

A groin injury kept him out of action for four weeks, before Arsenal reported that the 27-year-old had sustained an aggravation of his Achilles problem against the Toffees which would keep him sidelined this weekend.

Ferguson is wary of possible mind games ahead of the match which offers both clubs their final chance of finishing the season with a trophy.

“We’re preparing for Henry to play,” he said yesterday.

“But if I’m wrong, I’ll hold my hands up and say: ‘Don’t be so distrustful in future, Alex.'

“We will plan right to the very last minute and we think he’ll be in their team. Our preparation has been centred around what Arsenal’s team is likely to be and what it can be.

“And the one thing we do have is the pace to handle Henry. He is quick, there’s no question about that, but our defenders are very quick, too.”