The best praise anyone in the Premier League can receive is their comparison with Thierry Henry. Arsenal legend is one, if not the greatest player in the history of competition. He arrived in North London as a young player who initially found it difficult for the physicality of British football. However, a few years later, he left as an invincible icon.
Henry of the Premier League | record |
|---|---|
exterior | 258 |
the goal | 175 |
assist | 73 |
Even in the days of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, it’s difficult to put someone on top of Henry.
Of course, the former striker often talks about North London, but what makes him so special is the rival clubs also talk about his greatness.
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was able to speak very high about Henry over the years. “He’s the kind of player you need forever, especially in the Premier League, which was more than any other place.
“He was fine with Barcelona and (France) national team, but the real Thierry Henry, a player we all miss forever, has made incredible seasons and incredible history in the Premier League.”
There are many players who also receive comparisons with former gunners. Liverpool’s records are often likened to the French to sign Alexander Isaac, but it is still unclear whether the Swedes will match his legacy when everything is said and completed.
That said, it’s not Isaac who decided to compare Liverpool legend Jamie Carrager to the Arsenal legend. Instead, he named another player whom he believes is Henry in his position.
Carragher: Van Dijk is “Henry of the Center Back”
Speaking about CBS’s Champions League coverage following Liverpool’s late victory over Atletico Madrid, Karager claimed Virgil Vandic is “centre-back Henry” in the best admiration he can offer to the Dutch. Fresh from the winning goal against Atletico, it’s clear to see why the Reds skipper was compared to a player in Henry’s class.
“He’s off as one of the greatest players he’s played for Liverpool. He’s not one of the best centre-backs, he’s not one of the best. He’s Premier League centre-back Thierry Henry.”
Two Premier League titles, Champions League medals and everything in between, it’s difficult to discuss Carragher’s statement. Van Dijk is essential and definitely aging, like the fine wines at the heart of the Arne Slot’s backline.
For all of Liverpool’s impressive spending in the summer, their best deal may have been the captain’s new deal. Van Dik, who will be updating with Mohamed Sarah, has set the tone of what is coming and may now enjoy the rewards to do so. Another league title would, of course, take the Dutchman above Henry.