Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger would consider extending the loan of New York Red Bulls striker Thierry Henry. When David Beckham joined AC Milan in similar circumstances from LA Galaxy three years ago he ended up staying until the end of the season.

And Wenger said: "Milan might have negotiated that in advance but we have not done that.

"We have promised that we send the player back so we have not spoken about that at all."

But the Gunners boss is still hoping he may have to broach the subject - and ask New York for an extension.

He added: "Let's hope we have the problem. If we have a problem then it means he has done well so I hope we will have the problem.

"But at the moment I can just say no, it is not envisaged at all."