Henry: Reyes was so special

Thierry Henry today hailed young striker Jose Antonio Reyes for the "amazing way" he bounced back from his troubled week.

Reyes was outstanding in Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace at Highbury last night following a wretched few days after a hoax telephone call from a Spanish radio station prompted him to say he was unhappy at Arsenal and wanted to play for Real Madrid.

Reyes thought he was speaking to Real sporting director Emilio Butragueno. The revelations embarrassed and angered the 21-year-old, who is considering legal action. He scored a stunning goal against Palace and set up the opener for Dennis Bergkamp.

Henry, who scored twice as Arsenal moved 11 points behind leaders Chelsea, said: "Jose was tremendous - and the fans were tremendous with him. We all know what happened at the start of the weekend and it was amazing the way he reacted. It has been a long time since he scored in the league and it was important for him."

When Reyes scored, every Arsenal player ran to congratulate him. Henry said: "The guy is young and things happen. That is when you have to show we are a team."

Henry appreciates the problems Reyes has faced coming to a new country. He has moved on two occasions - from Monaco to Juventus and then on to Arsenal.

He said: "It is difficult. When people play tricks on you it becomes even more difficult. But he showed against Crystal Palace he has the quality to play for Arsenal and he is a great player. What a goal he scored and that is what we want to see.

"Things are hard when you first arrive. You have the language barrier and you miss your country. It takes a bit of time. Against Palace he gave the right answer." Henry then re-affirmed his commitment to Arsenal, saying: "I hope I can stay here until I am 60.

"If it was down to me, I would stay here for a long time. My commitment is here and my desire to play for the team is here."

And about last night's victory, he said: "It was about showing our desire and our commitment after the win at Aston Villa and trying to get back on a consistent level."