Former France and Arsenal football star Henry, whose handball famously ended the Republic of Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup, spoke to Fabien Galthie’s squad earlier this week.
In the play-off game at Stade de France in November 2009, Henry’s handball was not spotted by officials in the build-up to William Gallas’ extra-time goal, which sealed France’s place at the finals in South Africa at the Irish team’s expense.
Henry later apologised for using his hand to keep the ball in play while Dupont says there is “no link” between the 47-year-old’s visit and facing Six Nations champions Ireland.
“We talked about performance at a high level, and how you can deal with pressure, away [from home] especially,” said the France captain.
“I think he has long experience and I hope he has inspired us for this weekend.”A smiling Dupont added: “But we didn’t talk a lot about the hand[ball].”
