Offside News

HOW tough would it be filling the shoes of Cesc Fabregas as Arsenal’s new team captain?

Robin van Persie should start knowing the answer when he officially wears the armband as soon as he gets back in harness.
The 28-year-old Dutch striker assumed captaincy following Fabregas’ transfer to Barcelona last Monday.

Van Persie has been with the Gunners since 2004 and his long tenure at the club plus the leadership qualities he showed through the way he plays, motivates to win and interacts with teammates made him the perfect choice to take over Fabregas’ former post.

Knowing the responsibilities and the huge task on his shoulders, van Persie said he is ready to undertake the duties of the new job. “As captain, you are an ambassador for the club and I’m ready for that,’’ he told the Official Matchday Programme.

Having been in the game for more than 10 years, the Holland international has matured to blossom into one of the finest forwards in the league. He stressed the value of showing respect and being nice to people around him as he plays his new role being the new face of Arsenal. “Now I know how this world works. When I was 18 I didn’t have a clue but now I feel experienced, so I feel ready for this.’’

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger officially anointed van Persie, lauding the latter for his good leadership even when he was still co-captain. “He’s been at the club a long time and he’s a technical leader as well.’’

Van Persie missed Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Udinese in the first leg of their Champions league qualifier last Tuesday due to a one-match suspension from the UEFA.

But Arsenal fans need not wait any longer. He would return to action – his first official fixture as captain — on Saturday when the Gunners host Liverpool in their Premier League tussle at the Emirates.

Wenger also confirmed the appointment of defender Thomas Vermaelen as assistant captain.