SANCHEZ: WENGER RIGHT TO SELL HENRY

Lawrie Sanchez believes Arsenal's decision to sell Thierry Henry will be vindicated this season with Robin van Persie ready to fill the void.

Henry joined Barcelona for £16.1million in June and Gunners fans have been divided over the timing of the prolific French striker's departure.

But Sanchez believes Arsene Wenger's outstanding record in the transfer market should ease fears that Henry was allowed to leave too soon.

And the Fulham boss, who is preparing his side for Sunday's clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, believes van Persie is shaping up to become Henry's successor.

"I think Arsenal needed Henry when they moved to the Emirates Stadium - it was important that they had their talisman at the new stadium," he said.

"I think Arsene Wenger has been very, very good at moving players on at the right times.

"Many people thought Arsenal would miss Patrick Vieira then all of a sudden Cesc Fabregas emerges.

"People say they'll miss Henry but Van Persie has looked like a world beater in pre-season.

"Arsene has been very good in his timing of moving people on and getting top dollar for players who have probably already seen their best days."

Sanchez's own ability in the transfer market has been thrust under the microscope following his £24million outlay on nine new recruits - with possibly more to follow.

Former boss Chris Coleman, who was sacked with five games of last season remaining, will be looking on in envy at the riches handed to his successor at Craven Cottage.

But Sanchez insists Fulham chairman Mohamed Al Fayed recognised the squad must be strengthened to avoid another season-long battle against relegation.

"People see our outlay of £24million but we have got back £7million or £8million from selling Franck Queudrue, Heidar Helguson and Michael Brown," he said.

"The transfer money wasn't given to me because it was me, it was given to the manager who was in charge this season.

"At the top level the chairman realised the squad needed improving.

"The slide had taken place over a number of years and last season we went so close to relegation, which could have cost us £50million.

"On that basis it was decided a £20million investment in the team was needed. I was glad I was given the chance to do that.

"We've invested in nine players with one big signing. The squad needed changing, without change we wouldn't improve on last year."

From =football365=