Thierry’s clash with own fans

THIERRY HENRY'S dream Premier League return turned into a bitter nightmare last night. The Gunners legend was involved in a confrontation with his own fans after a humiliating defeat at Swansea. Henry, 34, had persuaded shellshocked team-mates to acknowledge the thousands of travelling fans who had just witnessed their SIXTH away defeat of the season. But a small group of supporters slammed the players — prompting an angry response from striker Henry, who only rejoined the club on loan from America last week. The Frenchman appeared to have a heated exchange with one fan, making gestures before storming off the pitch. A Gunners source said: "Thierry had encouraged his team-mates to go and acknowledge the fans and show their appreciation for the people who made the long journey to Swansea. "Unfortunately one or two of them had a few things to say and expressed their disappointment. "One in particular was shouting 'Where is the heart and the character and the fight?' "Thierry shouted back 'Get behind the team and support the players and don't be negative.'" Henry came on as a sub after 63 minutes but, unlike his heroics in the FA Cup against Leeds last Monday, he could not help Arsenal avoid defeat. Boss Arsene Wenger admitted he had been tempted to start Henry. He said: "You are always tempted to start him. When he comes on the pitch he gives us a lift. He was dangerous again."