Henry: As Motivated As Ever

Barcelona striker Thierry Henry insists he still has the motivation of when he was 17 as he turns 31.

The striker celebrated his birthday on Sunday and he is hoping to celebrate it by beginning the new season with a flourish and lifting some important trophies come May 2009.

The former Gunner is way past his prime but he insists he still has plenty to offer the Blaugrana cause following their disappointing season last term.

“31? I have been playing for 14 years and I have the same motivation and will to win as I had when I was 17,” Henry told Sport.

“I don’t really want to talk about last year, the only thing I am interested in is the present and to do things well with the new coach and team.

“I don’t have anything to prove, the only thing I want is to help my teammates and to play well for everybody in the side.”

Henry enjoyed a mixed first season at the Balugrana last term. No success, turbelence on and off the pitch and the Rijkaard debacle as well the Laporta motion of censure caused shockwaves at Camp Nou.

However, he seems in top form and he is likely to lead the charge for the La Liga and Champions League alongside Lionel Messi and co.

Salvatore Landolina