Robin van Persie believes Arsenal's band of starlets can
belie their tender years this season and be fully involved in the
race for the title.
Thierry Henry's departure to Barcelona has cast a cloud of doubt
over Emirates Stadium and with North London rivals Tottenham
investing heavily in the pre-season, there has been talk of
usurpation in the capital.
Van Persie is not, though, amongst the doom merchants and instead,
very much to the contrary, is confident Arsene Wenger's side will
show there is life beyond their departed talisman.
In a series of close-season friendlies, Arsenal - despite being
shorn of several of their top names through injury - have played
some impressive football and the manner in which they dominated
Internazionale on Sunday bodes well for the future.
"Football is not about age. It is not about money," said Van
Persie.
"It is not about those things. Football is about if you want to run
for each other, if you want to fight for each other, if you want to
really play some ball.
"Chelsea and Manchester did a great job last year. It is hard to
fight with them, but I know we can do it.
"Liverpool have spent lots of money, Chelsea have been doing that
the last few years. I respect that. This is their way of winning
things - but we can win things as well.
"We are young. So what? Age does not matter. It is about the way we
play football and the way we like to play together."
While the bookies will install Arsenal way behind the likes of
Manchester United, Chelsea and even Liverpool in the race for the
title, Van Persie is convinced top spot is not beyond them.
"If you win the title with this team it would be great. I really
believe we can do that. I really believe that in my heart. I think
the manager is thinking the same.
"I started pre-season training on June 18 and I am with these boys
every day, I see their ability.
"Yes they are young and young people make mistakes, but that does
not really matter - like in love, age does not matter.
"Everyone was really happy to play in this game against Inter. If
we play the same way or even less, we will have a big chance to at
least fight for the title."