Barcelona striker Thierry Henry was yesterday named captain of France by coach Raymond Domenech.

Domenech did not reveal whether Henry would hold the position on an interim or a full-time basis.

France play an international friendly against Sweden in Gothenburg on Wednesday.

"As he (Henry) is here, and Pat (Patrick Viera, injured) isn't, Thierry has all the qualities and skills to be captain. I have to select a team with those who are available now...Nobody can say what will happen in the future," added Domenech.

Asked about the future, the coach added: "Titi" (Henry) has all the skills required to be captain, we have seen in recent years this or that person can have a problem. So I am not speculating one way or the other, I am sure of the choice today."

When Vieira was not available in the past, Lilian Thuram took the arm-band. But Thuram earlier this month announced his retirement.

Arsenal defender William Gallas was named vice-captain.

Henry said he was "very proud" of the nomination.

"It's a big responsibility but I feel I can still contribute a lot. After all, I have a great deal of experience at the top level and I know the up-and-coming generation well," said the former Arsenal player.

"As I have always felt like a youngster myself I know how to read them," added Les Bleus' new skipper.

"You have to be exemplary on the pitch, as well as outside. And you also have to communate frequently, to inject some happiness into this team," the 31-year-old continued.

France have two 2010 World Cup qualifiers next month - against Austria in Vienna on September 6 and Serbia at home four days later.

AFP

Back to Home

Print