France captain Thierry Henry has admitted it ‘was neccesary to exploit what was exploitable’ regarding his handball in their World Cup play-off.
The Irish have branded the striker a ‘cheat’ after he handled the ball in the build-up to William Gallas’ extra-time goal in Wednesday’s second leg, which gave France a 2-1 aggregate.
Henry has admitted to handling the ball and has now apologised, but the Barcelona striker has threatened to stir up further antagonism with his latest remarks.
He said on his Twitter page: “I’m not the referee, but if I hurt someone I’m sorry.
“It was not a beautiful match. It was just neccesary to exploit what was exploitable.
“The Irishmen could have doubled their lead two or three times. The ball ran up against my hand and I continued to play, the referee did not whistle and there was a goal.
“I would have preferred that it happened differently but this is not down to me – it is the referee. However, I do not believe our qualification is stolen.
“I said to Richard Dunne that the ball had touched my hand, but he told me, ‘you are not to blame’.”
Christmas special offer – Subscribe to World Soccer magazine today and Save up to 32%
