Gillette have no plans to sack Thierry Henry following his role in ending the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup dream. Henry has admitted to handling the ball before setting up William Gallas for the decisive goal in Paris last night but has denied any intent.

He has nevertheless been the subject of much opprobrium over his part in the goal that ended hopes of Giovanni Trapattoni’s side qualifying for the finals in South Africa.

But a spokesman for the shaving company, who feature the Barcelona forward prominently in their advertising, said: “Gillette is aware of what happened last night in the World Cup play-off game. Thierry Henry has publicly acknowledged it was a handball.

“Gillette are not placed to comment on any refereeing decisions made in the match or any refereeing at all for that matter. This is not going to affect our relationship with Thierry Henry.”