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Thierry Henry makes surprise appearance at Wales training

Few strikers were feared as much in Europe as Thierry Henry at his peak David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Wales had an unlikely spectator at training this week as they built towards Friday's blockbuster Six Nations clash against Ireland at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

Former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry watched Wales go through their paces on Tuesday as part of a Football Association of Wales group in Newport.

Henry -- who is currently assistant coach with the Belgium national side -- took coaching qualifications on the renowned FAW programme.

"It was a bit surreal, really, to have a legend like him around," Wales scrum-half Rhys Webb said.

"I shook his hand and said hello. I don't think he fancied catching a few box-kicks or whatever, and as soon as the forwards came down he disappeared -- he must be a back!

"It's been good to have him around. He's certainly doing a job with Wales football so hopefully he can bring us a little bit of luck on Friday night."

While Wales' Six Nations chances are all but extinguished -- Webb has a prime opportunity to catch the attention of British & Irish Lions coach Warren Gatland in a mouthwatering match-up against Ireland's Conor Murray.

The pair are arguably the top two No. 9's in northern hemsiphere rugby, with both players looking set to scrap for one Lions Test team place in New Zealand this summer.

Webb, though, is far more concerned with helping Wales rediscover winning ways following successive Six Nations defeats at the hands of England and Scotland.

"I am not one to get to caught up in individual battles," he said.

"My effort and concentration go to the team.

"He [Murray] and [Johnny] Sexton are a big part of the Irish team. They have a good kicking game which we have to be aware of and apply lots of pressure to them.

"There will be a lot of focus on the nine battle, but that is for you [media] and spectators.

"I focus on myself, no matter who I am playing. If I do the best I can, I hope the rest takes care of itself."

The Press Association contributed to this report.