The Dutchman’s Arsenal career has been plagued by injury and he
was much missed last season as he spent much of the time watching
from the sidelines as Arsenal’s early season title challenge faded
towards the end of the season.
The striker was clearly disappointed about the way last season
turned out, but speaking to the club’s official website it is
obvious he is philosophical about the experience.
“Last year I missed too many games and I am still disappointed
about it,” said van Persie before adding, “But that is life. That
is football and things can happen. I accepted it."
Van Persie returned to action at Euro 2008 and managed two goals
in four appearances for the Netherlands as he looked to regain his
best form.
With a new Premier League season looming, the Dutchman is hoping
this is a sign of things to come and he can keep injury-free. The
striker said: “This is a new year with new chances. Hopefully I can
be injury-free this year. Last year I played 16 games and scored
seven goals — that is nearly one out of two. It is not too
bad.”
With Eduardo still out injured and Emmanuel Adebayor’s future at
the Emirates uncertain, there will be high hopes over van Persie
this season, a fact the striker is well aware. Speaking of his
hopes for the new season, the message from the Dutchman is clear.
He said: “I just want to have the same results this season
with a few more matches.”
Arsenal begin their season on August 16 with newly promoted West
Bromwich Albion the visitors to the Emirates.
is that possible? 