Arsenal legend Henry is playable in NBA 2K17

Former Arsenal star Thierry Henry has popped up in an unlikely place after images of the French striker in the upcoming NBA 2K17 release surfaced Friday.

A noted fan of the San Antonio Spurs and countryman Tony Parker, Henry will feature alongside actor Michael B. Jordan and comedian Hannibal Buress as a highlight of the game's MyCareer mode. Henry will also appear courtside at Spurs games.

Irish football fans may find little humour in the appearance after Henry's handball effectively crushed the Republic's hopes of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.

At least now Arsenal's all-time leading scorer will be afforded the opportunity to use his hands whenever he sees fit.

"Being a basketball and NBA fan since I was a kid, I'm honoured to be the first football player ever to be playable in NBA 2K17," Henry said in a statement.

"Seeing myself go toe to toe with the legends of the sport is an amazing feeling."

(Photos courtesy: 2K Sports)

NBA 2K17 will be released Sept. 20 for Playstation, XBOX, and PC.