Arsenal icon Thierry Henry backed to take over as Wales boss after Rob Page sacking as he ‘understands Welsh football’

THIERRY HENRY has been backed as a shock contender for the Wales job.

That's the view of ex-Dragons striker Robert Earnshaw, who wants the Arsenal legend to replace the sacked Robert Page.

Henry - France's current Under-21s boss - did his coaching badges alongside Earnshaw in Wales.

The former Premier League star, 46, will also coach his country at the Paris Olympics this summer.

Earnshaw said: "One name who is left field but I'd throw is Thierry Henry. It's my own personal thought.

"I spent some time with Thierry on the coaching course a couple of years ago. He was on the Welsh FA course.

"He knows (technical director) David Adams and the set-up. He understands Welsh football.

"The one thing that stood out when I was sat with Thierry was his football brain is brilliant.

"With France U21s and the Olympic team, he understands young players. He would raise the bar and the level. I don't know whether he would want it.

"I could see someone like Thierry doing it. His football brain is brilliant, he's so sharp, advanced and has got great ideas."

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Osian Roberts, Como's head of development, is the bookies' favourite with Burnley interim boss Craig Bellamy also in the frame. Ex-Wales managers Ryan Giggs and Mark Hughes are keen to get back into management too.

Ex-striker Earnshaw, who won 59 Wales caps and scored 16 goals, has worked with Roberts before and played for his country alongside Bellamy.

Earnshaw added: "Osian was my U-18 coach and then assistant to Gary Speed. I've known him a long time. He's put in a lot of time, has experience and is a very good coach.

"Craig has taken a few years to learn the ropes and work behind the scenes. He's very professional and very good with young players.

"I went to Anderlecht a few years ago when he was the U21s coach. He was coaching the likes of (Jeremy) Doku.

"I came away and loved the way they played, tactically really sharp, advanced, forward intent football and an exciting team.

"He is one who would demand more than what the players feel they can give. Some of the best managers get an extra 10, 15 or 20 per cent better out of myself. I can see him doing the job,

We have to be careful that we choose the right one to bring the best out of the players. I don't think under Robert we saw the best out of the players constantly."

Ex-Cardiff boss Neil Warnock, 75, said he would consider the vacant job.

Torquay's football advisor was speaking at an event in the Welsh capital on Friday night when he was asked about succeeding Page.

Warnock replied: "Absolutely."