Thierry Henry content with reduced World Cup role

Gallic ball-handler Thierry Henry has stated he is content to start his World Cup campaign from the bench – after receiving a starting lineup snub in each of France’s recent friendly matches.

“As I’ve often said, the most important thing is the team” he told French television, having twice been used as second-half substitute. “I try to come on and give something, give some movement when I’m called on.”

Recent decisions from French coach Raymond Domenech suggest Henry may be handing his captains armband to Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra, with Bayern winger Franck Ribéry looking to usurp his position along the flanks. Domenech has derided suggestion of benching his country’s all-time goalscorer as “just a piece of gossip”.

Henry has produced only two goals for Barcelona since January and has seen lackluster club displays culminate in a reduced, periphery role as occasional substitute for the Catalan giants. Henry’s potential squad demotion is another sign of how quickly the forward’s star has fallen, with the rumour mill suggesting a summer transfer to MLS side New York Red Bulls.