Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has ranked former teammate Nwankwo Kanu the best player in the history of African football in terms of technique, adding that it was a privilege to play with him for five years.

The 1998 World Cup winner was speaking at the Landmark Events, ‘Watch a Match with Thierry Henry’, which was also attended by ex-Nigeria internationals Victor Ikpeba, Peter Rufai, Mutiu Adepoju, Finidi George, and Austin Eguavoen.

''Happy to be first time in Nigeria, I have met with Kanu, Ikpeba, they always say you have to go (Nigeria) they love the game there, I knew that for a fact, I grew up watching the Super Eagles that in 1994 and before that a lot of Nigerians played in France, Siasia, late Stephen Keshi,'' Henry told reporters, including Daily Trust.

''When those guys played that was how I knew Nigeria but they played in France and did well and the Super Eagles backed it up in 1994 World Cup.''

Henry added : ''Kanu is always happy, positive. He was really good, very good. Everyone knew it. He was very calm, just unbelievable. It was a privilege playing with him.''

Henry and former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba were teammates at Ligue 1 club Monaco for six years, 1993 to 1999.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit: arsenal.com