Henry hits back at criticism over Barcelona form

MADRID (Reuters) - Barcelona striker Thierry Henry has hit back at his critics after helping the side to a 3-1 Champions League victory at home to Sporting Lisbon.

The France international made some strong runs and came close to scoring on two or three occasions at the Nou Camp on Tuesday, but it was Rafael Marquez, Samuel Eto'o and Xavi who found the back of the net.

Barca's 1-0 defeats away to Wisla Krakow in their Champions League third qualifying round second leg, and to promoted Numancia in their league opener, have had local media questioning Henry's performances and commitment during the side's unconvincing start.

The former Arsenal player was rested for Saturday's 1-1 league draw at home to Racing Santander, prompting further press speculation that new coach Pep Guardiola had dropped him.

"It's better to talk about our victory than the incredible things they have said about me," Henry told reporters. "People talk a lot but I have been playing football for 14 years and it is 11 players who win or lose, not one.

"Here, though, it seems to operate differently sometimes."

When asked about being left out of the squad to face Racing, Henry responded: "Ask the coach."

The 31-year-old, who suffered with a back injury and problems of adaptation to his new club at home and on the pitch last season, failed to win over fans under former coach Frank Rijkaard, despite being their top scorer with 19 goals in all competitions.

He has scored once in four outings in the current campaign, in the 4-0 first-leg win over Wisla Krakow.

(Writing by Mark Elkington; Editing by Sonia Oxley)