HENRY QUITS SKY JOB

Thierry henry is turning his back on £10million over the next two-and-a-half years as a Sky Sports pundit in his quest to become a manager.

The Arsenal legend’s £4m-a-year contract with the TV network, where he has worked since 2015, was due to run until the end of 2020.

But henry’s experience as assistant to Belgium’s roberto Martinez at the World Cup, helping guide the team to third place, has crystallised his ambition to be a manager in his own right.

henry, who has a full set of coaching badges, leaves Sky with immediate effect but will take his time choosing the right managerial role.

he has already had an offer from the UK and two from abroad. But there are sure to be more now he has committed himself to management rather than taking the easier pundit option.

henry said: ‘i have decided i must leave Sky to spend more time on the pitch and concentrate on the journey to achieving my goal.’

Sky Sports managing director Barney Francis, who faced strong criticism for paying henry so much, said: ‘We’ve loved having him as part of our coverage. he has helped take our viewers closer to the game. But we’ve always known he has a real passion for coaching.’

Former england captain John Terry, 37, and recently released by Championship side Aston Villa, is a potential replacement for henry.