Arsenal

Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry caught up in FAW 'favouritism' row

By Pascal Lemesre, Football League Editor | 22 March 2016

Thierry Henry is at the centre of a row over alleged favouritism after completing his UEFA A Licence with the Football Association of Wales.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has been accused of favouritism towards Thierry Henry after granting the former Arsenal striker his UEFA A Licence.

Henry, 38, can now manage below the Premier League or at academy level after completing the course with the FAW earlier this month.

However, according to the Daily Mail, others studying with the FAW believe that the Frenchman was fast-tracked through.

"There was no way humanly possible Thierry had even completed his UEFA B licence and could have finished all his assessments and tasks on the A licence when everyone else participating on the course has not even had the chance," said Will Foley, a former Swansea City, Cardiff City and Newport County player who now works as a coach.

"Where does it end with the Welsh FA? Are they not worried that someone somewhere will start asking to see proof that all these top names are completing what is required by UEFA to fully pass the courses."

Jens Lehmann, Marcel Desailly, Patrick Vieira, David Ginola and Roberto Martinez are some others who have earned their coaching badges under the leadership of FAW technical director Osian Roberts.