Bookmaker to ignore Henry contributions to World Cup

A bookmaker is to give punters a hand by ignoring Thierry Henry’s contributions on the pitch in the 2010 World Cup, it has emerged.

After the controversial ‘Hand of Henry’ denied Ireland the chance to go to the World Cup finals, one betting firm, whose European managing director is Irish, has decided to take revenge.

Bodog.com has decided to remove Thierry Henry’s involvement from all World Cup bets after its Europe MD, Keith McDonnell, felt he could not enjoy the tournament with the Frenchman still playing a part.

For any French game in which Henry plays, punters can now place a bet safe in the knowledge that his goals will not count against them.

For example, if a customer backs a draw in a France game and Henry scores, making them 1-0 winners, he will still get paid.

This also applies to a first goalscorer and each-way markets too. So, if a punter backs a player to be the highest scorer throughout the tournament and the customer's selection comes fourth, one below Henry, he would be paid as if he came third.

However, if a person places a bet for France to win, all of Henry's goals will still be counted.

"I want to enjoy the World Cup and the only way I can do that is if Thierry Henry is no longer part of it," said McDonnell.

"He has already ruined my World Cup and I want to make sure he can do no more damage."

Irish Examiner