New York Red Bulls head coach Hans Backe is expecting Thierry Henry to make a difference this season.

The French striker recently completed a 'surprise' six-week loan with former club Arsenal and according to Backe is in good shape as the Red Bulls prepare for their opening match of the Desert Diamond Cup pre-season tournament.

"He's absolutely totally focused on the Red Bulls. He was quite surprised when they asked him to help on loan for six weeks,'' Backe said.

"He looks quite fit. They play so many games in the Premiership, it's not that much training between the game. But so far he has done two sessions. It's always good to have that kind of player back. They will make a difference.''

 The game is about opinions. Make yours heard! Join the tribalfootball.com nation on Facebook today: Facebook.com/tribalfootball