This season wasn’t the first time that Robin van Persie captained Arsenal on a regular basis. Last season, post-Champions League exit at the hands of Barcelona, Cesc Fabregas was often injured and the Dutchman pretty much took the armband until the end of the season.
But it was only after Arsene Wenger officially announced that Van Persie would be the new captain, when the player really started making his presence felt. He has got one of the most important qualities which a captain requires, he is patient and level headed. It was assumed by many that Van Persie was made captain just because he is the best performer in the team. However, Wenger was quick to quell those facts:
‘He’s a perfect captain not just because he scores goals but because he behaves himself on and off the pitch like a captain who wants his team to do well.’
Many a times this season the player has shown his patience, and needless to say he has led by example and Wenger even went on to stress that RVP is a leader on and off the pitch. Below mentioned are some of his most impressive acts as a captain.
1. After the forgettable 8-2 drubbing at Old Trafford, most of the players were heading back to the tunnel with nothing more to give, but Robin forced everybody to come near the away fans and applaud their contribution.
2. During the Blackburn game, when Gervinho went for goal and missed instead of passing to an unmarked RVP, the Dutchman immediately yelled at the Ivorian on the pitch and made his feelings clear.
3. After the torturous win (in AW’s language) over Chelsea, captain marvel dragged everybody and made them celebrate in front of the away fans!
Ever since Patrick Vieira left, Arsenal have been longing for a captain like this. Thierry Henry was a world-class player, but his leadership qualities were very ordinary. William Gallas had discipline problems and Cesc Fabregas was made captain more because of the fact that he was the best player at the club, not because he was an inspirational leader.
Robin van Persie is currently on a tantalizing run and his new found captaincy has improved him further in my opinion. Surely Wenger has made the right choice by making him the club captain and a large majority of the fans seem to agree with the Frenchman’s decision.
Like what you read? Then follow me on Twitter – http://twitter.com/vj_gooner
Visit and Join our Facebook page, click HERE to do so.
Gunnersphere is currently looking for new writers to join the squad. Contact via twitter or at Gunnersphere@snack-media.com for further details.
