New York Red Bulls star Thierry Henry admits he is at a much better stage now than what he was when he arrived at the club. The 33-year old French striker was carrying a nagging knee problem when he landed at Red Bull Arena from Barcelona in July, restricting him to 12 matches for his new club, five of which he exited the pitch early.

But the former Arsenal superstar is confident that a proper pre-season will have him firing on all cylinders in the 2011 MLS season.

"Last year, I arrived on an empty tank," Henry said. "Very difficult to find my form, so that's what you want to do, you want to have the time to prepare yourself to be able to compete throughout the season."

Henry has spent a few weeks back in North London with the Gunners and says his knee is feeling much more comfortable as a result.

"Better, way better, not there yet to strike the ball too hard but it's hopefully something that's in the past and hopefully will stay in the past - it's way better," he said positively.