Thierry Henry is taking his next step towards a return to Arsenal as a coach.

Starting his coaching badges with the FA in Wales, the Arsenal legend has been granted permission by the club to coach at Hale End, the youth academy, and has already taken some sessions with the various youth groups there.

As the former striker undertakes his A and B UEFA licences, the experience at Hale End will help give him an invaluable sense of life on the other side of a club and will help him towards his ultimate dream of returning to Arsenal on a permanent basis.

While it is being reported that this move is not seen as the first step towards his eventual return – Arsenal frequently allow ex-players to coach at the club when undertaking their badges – it’s hard not to read the news and not get a little bit excited.

There is, of course, no proof that Henry will be able to transmit his playing prowess into ability as a coach, but it would be a brave person who bets against him.