Thierry Henry turns down Aston Villa manager’s job with French icon set for return to Monaco… leaving John Terry as main contender for role

Thierry Henry ahead of Belgium's World Cup semi-final against France

Thierry Henry has turned down the opportunity to manage Aston Villa after being approached by Monaco over an emotional return to the French club.

Villa are moving on from Henry by continuing discussions with other candidates, including Rui Faria and John Terry, who has told associates of his confidence in returning to the club he played for last season.

Faria is a genuine contender too after stepping down as Jose Mourinho’s assistant at Manchester United in the summer to pursue a career as a No 1.Provided by Associated Newspapers Limited Henry began his professional career with Monaco, playing 141 times before joining Arsenal