Henry backs call to give Bergkamp deal for final year

Thierry Henry has urged Arsène Wenger to end the doubts over Dennis Bergkamp's future by giving the veteran Dutchman a final one-year contract at Highbury.

Thierry Henry has urged Arsène Wenger to end the doubts over Dennis Bergkamp's future by giving the veteran Dutchman a final one-year contract at Highbury.

Wenger left the situation up in the air, even after the Highbury crowd had unanimously called for "one more year" for Bergkamp after the 7-0 rout of Everton.

However, Henry was adamant in his belief that Bergkamp, who has just turned 36, still has a huge amount to offer the side.

"I was really happy for Dennis. During the whole game, the fans were asking for another year. That is the least you can do for a player like that," Henry said. "I've said it so many times, he makes things easy. You saw how many times he was involved in the goals, I lost count. He was amazing throughout all the years that he has been here and, if it was down to me, I would give him another year."

Bergkamp revealed he was moved almost to tears by the overwhelming demand of the crowd for him to be given a final 12-month deal. "It was quite special. It was difficult not to get emotional as it was quite something for them to all be cheering my name and shouting 'one more year'. Was I moved to tears? Inside, yes. You are playing the game but with that singing, you get really emotional yourself."

The Dutchman added: "I know that I have the fans' respect but I was still a bit surprised. They obviously feel there is another year left in me, so that's great as it shows they're really behind me. I've made up my mind already but this only made it clearer to me and has taken any doubts away."

The Arsenal midfielder Edu insisted he is not leaving Highbury due to financial reasons but to seek a fresh challenge in his career.

"People sometimes think it's a money thing but Arsenal offered me a very good contract. It's not all about money. Now is a good moment to leave and change my life for another life. I told the boss not to come with another offer as I had the feeling that I'd like to leave."

As well as any wage issues, Edu was flattered by the interest in him when he was not guaranteed a regular first-team place with Arsenal.