Arsenal captain Robin van Persie formally welcomed back Thierry Henry before last night's heroics against Leeds United.

Van Persie could be reunited with Henry on the pitch when Arsène Wenger's side travel to Swansea next weekend and he believes the French striker has made a brave decision.

"It's great to welcome Thierry Henry back to the Club - his return will lift everyone," Van Persie told the Official Arsenal Matchday Programme.

"Some people might ask why he is choosing to come back, because he is already a legend - he's just got a statue here! But for me it tells you everything about him; he's coming back because he loves the game.

"I think if you asked ten legends whether they would come back, I'm not sure they would be brave enough. But Thierry really loves the game, and that's what I really like. He knows things are at stake, he is remembered as a legend, but for him it's simple - he loves the game and he wants to be a part of the Club he loves.

"I'm sure he will get loads of games, because I've seen him in training, and I don't want to put too much pressure on, but I can assure you he is looking really good."