Wenger - Captaincy inspired RVP

Arsene Wenger believes the responsibility of being Arsenal captain has helped Robin van Persie become an even better player.

Arsenal manager praises Dutchman's ability to lead by example

Arsene Wenger believes the responsibility of being Arsenal captain has helped Robin van Persie become an even better player. The Dutchman was handed the armband last summer after Cesc Fabregas left to join Barcelona and he has repaid the faith shown in him by producing a series of sensational performances. Van Persie has won both the PFA Player of the Year and the FWA Footballer of the Year awards over the past week and Wenger is delighted to see the striker receive such recognition. The Gunners manager thinks Van Persie has gone from strength to strength since being made skipper, while his fine form has in turn inspired the rest of the team. "He took his role seriously on and off the pitch and I think it added something to his determination as well," Wenger told Arsenal Player. "That is why maybe his commitment was even stronger - because he feels more responsibility. He grew into this role. "The best way to be a captain for me is to be a fantastic football player, that is the best way to get respect in your team. He did that remarkably well."