Picking an Arsenal Starting XI to Include Thierry Henry

If you didn't know already, Thierry Henry is well and truly back.

With his classic goal against Leeds United, Henry showed that he has all the ability he has always had, even if he may lack the stamina and deadly pace he once possessed.

Henry can be a very capable replacement for Robin van Persie should the Dutchman be rested, as he was against Leeds, or if he is injured for a short period of time.

With that in mind, let us pick an Arsenal Starting XI to include the legend himself: Thierry Henry.

The Back Five

The Arsenal back five pretty much picks itself, due to injuries and recent performances.

Wojciech Szczesny has been absolutely phenomenal for the Gunners in goal, while there are no viable alternatives to Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny is defence, though both have performed very well.

On the flanks, Johan Djoruou will be forced to keep playing grossly out of position at right back until the return of Bacary Sagna, while Thomas Vermaelen has performed admirably on his more familiar left side.

The Belgian's effort and desire are undisputed, and he has provided an excellent calming, leading influence to the whole back line.

The Midfield

Again, there is not much difficulty in picking a first-choice Arsenal midfield due to the current form of the Gunners' three midfield men.

Alex Song has been outstanding recently, combining tough defending with a increasingly adventurous attacking instinct. He has been quietly contributing more assists lately, and his superb pass set up Henry's goal.

Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsey has evolved this season into a very effective and creative midfielder, who runs as much as anyone in the team, and is frequently involved in the Gunners' attacking moves.

And finally, Mikel Arteta has been undroppable of late, as he provides the crucial fulcrum between defense and attack, and his calming influence and leadership are extremely valuable.

The Forwards

Here is where things get slightly more interesting.

I am of the opinion that, if Arsene Wenger wishes to persist with his current 4-3-3 formation, which utilizes a lone striker, Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie cannot fit into the same Starting XI.

However, this is not a problem, as Henry would only need to start when van Persie is being rested, and the two can effectively work together for short spans for the final stretches of games.

Thus, if we are to choose a Starting XI that includes Henry, we would be assuming that van Persie is being rested, and the front line would be composed of Theo Walcott, Gervinho, and the legend himself.