Ray Parlour believes that former Arsenal teammate Thierry Henry has the potential to become "a top-class manager" if he wishes.

The 37-year-old announced his retirement from football on Tuesday morning, after 20 years in the game.

Henry became Arsenal's all-time leading goalscorer during his eight-year spell with the Gunners, scoring 175 goals in 258 games.

"We could spend all morning talking about his record, his performances, his accolades – he was outstanding," Parlour told Sky Sports News.

"It was a pleasure to play with him. He was a true gentleman and in the dressing room he was great to have around.

"He is very intelligent and knows so much about the game. If he wants to, there is no reason why he can't become a top-class manager."

Henry and Parlour played together between 1999 and 2004, winning two Premier League titles and two FA Cups in that time.