 2002 – 03 proved to be another productive season for Henry , as he scored 32 goals in all competitions while contributing 23 assists — remarkable returns for a striker . In doing so , he led Arsenal to another FA Cup triumph ( where he was man @-@ of @-@ the @-@ match in the Final ) , although Arsenal failed to retain their Premier League title . Throughout the season , he competed with Manchester United 's Ruud van Nistelrooy for the league scoring title , but the Dutchman edged Henry to the Golden Boot by a single goal . Nonetheless , Henry was named both the PFA Players ' Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year . His rising status as one of the world 's best footballers was affirmed when he emerged runner @-@ up for the 2003 FIFA World Player of the Year award . 
