Wenger eyes Robin impact

Dutchman's return could be decisive, says manager

By James Dall   Last updated: 11th March 2008

Robin van Persie Arsenal celebration jump

Van Persie: Greatly missed

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Arsene Wenger believes Robin van Persie can 'make a difference' as Arsenal's charge for the Premier League title reaches a pivotal climax.

The Gunners have stuttered of late, recording their third consecutive league draw at Wigan on Sunday.

Arsenal's dropped points have handed the edge to rivals Manchester United, who have a game in hand and lie two points behind the leaders.

But Wenger feels that Van Persie's return to fitness can assist his side in regaining their grip on the fight for Premier League glory.

Van Persie has suffered an injury ravaged season; managing just seven league starts this campaign.

But the Holland international, who has struck five league goals this season, is at Wenger's disposal once more after he made his eagerly anticipated return against Wigan.

Patience

"He can make a difference. How much? I don't know," Wenger told the club's official website before the Wigan game. "He has played eight games, we have played 28. To have him back for the last 10 would be patience rewarded.

"[Before he was injured] he played eight games and scored five goals. When you lose a player like that you think of course we are in trouble but we compensated well.

"He is desperate to come back and do well."

Van Persie admits the current campaign has been a frustrating one, but is determined to make an impact in Arsenal's nine remaining league fixtures, and in their UEFA Champions League quest.

"It has been very frustrating," he told Arsenal TV. "I started the season with very big ideas, my ambition was very high and it still is.

"I have missed many games but I am thinking positive at the moment and I want to finish this season well with the team.

Positive

"I am happy to be back and am quite positive that we can win the league and the Champions League.

"I am happy to be back but it was a disappointing day to lose two points [at Wigan], and in the last three games we have lost six points in total and that is not good enough."