Arsenal star Thierry Henry would love to see Liverpool become one of the challengers for the Premiership next season. The French striker was joint winner of the European Golden Boot this season and was impressed with the Reds’ Champions Leagues performances.
Henry said:
"I really want Liverpool up there at the top," he said. "It will make it much more exciting. I hope they can catch up with us, Chelsea and Manchester United. A four way championship fight would be special."
The striker is pleased for Liverpool for the way that it means he’ll get a few less digs from friends back in France now: "You have to give credit to Liverpool. People say the English league is easy. These supporters point to the fact that English teams rarely do well in the Champions League – even though we have four teams enter every year. When I go home to France people poke fun at me, saying I only score so many goals because the Premier League is not difficult to play in. I always end up defending myself and English football. I do not think they are being fair." Becoming the European Champions means Liverpool have now shown the continent just how strong the game is in England says Henry:
"Liverpool, despite finishing fifth, have proved by winning the Champions League that the English league is indeed very strong. This has answered all those people who make remarks. Liverpool have done something for all of us and we should thank them."
Like many people in the last seven days, Henry believes that last Wednesday’s game in Istanbul will be long remember: "It was the most amazing final ever. At 3-0 down Liverpool looked completely dead. But they were able to show the fighting spirit which is so typical of an English team."
Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard has been linked with a move for Henry, claiming he’s willing to pay up to £50million for the player, but Henry seems to be happy enough in England. He says Anfield is the best ground to visit, thanks to Liverpool’s famous supporters: "Liverpool’s fans are just amazing. The best feeling I have at away games is Anfield. It is just incredible. I love it. You get goosebumps when you see their supporters sing You’ll Never Walk Alone."