Henry is the fourth French winner of the FWA award Photos from Henry's season

Thierry Henry has completed a prestigious double by being named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The Arsenal striker narrowly beat Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to win his second award in a week, having been named PFA Player of the Year award on Sunday.

Henry is the fourth Frenchman to win the award, following Eric Cantona, David Ginola and last year's winner, Robert Pires.

FWA chairman Gerry Cox said: "Thierry Henry is a worthy winner who has scored some magnificent goals this season and made another massive contribution to Arsenal's season.

"Henry made all the early running when the poll opened, but was challenged by Van Nistelrooy in a race which mirrored Arsenal and Manchester United's fight for the title."

A total of 13 players received nominations for the award, with strikers dominating the vote.

Newcastle's Alan Shearer finished third while Gianfranco Zola of Chelsea was fourth.

Henry is the 11th player to win both the PFA and FWA trophies in the same season.

Hats off to Thierry Henry - he is simply the best Read James Beattie's column

He will receive his award at the FWA's annual dinner at the Royal Lancaster Hotel on 15 May.

The FWA award has been running since 1948, when Stanley Matthews became the first winner.