In the week or so since the France vs. Ireland World Cup qualifier, Thierry Henry has gone from one of the world's most respected and brilliant player's to football's biggest villain? Why? A handball, not once, but twice, to score a goal that would win the French the match. I think it is beyond doubt that it was a foul but FIFA is refusing a replay and Henry won't own up to it. The incident is being compared to Diego Maradonna's infamous "Hand of God", we now have the "Hand of Gaul". One can only hope that Henry's glittering career won't be indelibly marked by this display of cheating and dishonesty. But i fear there is little chance of that. I don't think it is even about which team goes further on their world cup journey (although i'm sure that was the impetus for his actions) It has now become a matter of conscience. If he owns up now, he will become a shining beacon of integrity and the world will love him again. A triumph over the cheating culture that has unfortunately developed in professional football. Henry put self-interest ahead of justice and dealt another telling blow to the spirit of football. The credibility of the world game is slowing dying. What are FIFA and UEFA doing about it? Nothing.

This incident has only strengthened the argument for video referral to be used to back up Referees, technology already used in other sports such as Tennis, Rugby and Cricket. Whilst controversial at times, the crowds have quickly learned to appreciate it's use. This usage pales in comparison to the American NFL. For the first 28 minutes of each half of an NFL game, the coach of either team can challenge an official's decision and call for a video review. But they only have two challenges per game. Throughout the game, though, their fortunes are in the hands of the replay assistant, who can call for a review – from six angles – of any play they deem suspect. I think Thierry Henry would not last long in the NFL.