LONDON: Robin van Persie has dismissed talk of a rift with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger following the striker’s reaction to the substitution of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain against Manchester United.
Van Persie, a pivotal figure for Arsenal this season as they attempt to qualify for the Champions League, appeared to exclaim “No!” when Wenger replaced Oxlade-Chamberlain with Andrey Arshavin during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat.
The decision was hugely unpopular with Arsenal’s fans, who roundly jeered Wenger following the move.
Holland striker van Persie however has moved quickly to play down suggestions of a split with Wenger, saying in a statement on his Facebook page on Tuesday that Oxlade-Chamberlain had been replaced because of a calf injury.
“I was not having a go at the boss on Sunday – I was just sad to see Alex leave the pitch as he just gave the assist for our only goal,” van Persie said.
“I was not questioning his judgement – I know it’s not my place to challenge what Arsene Wenger does. He is the boss, he makes the decisions and that’s it, end of story.
“Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain had a calf injury. We did not know that but the boss did and brought Andrey Arshavin on.”
Van Persie added: “I have a lot of respect and admiration for Arsene Wenger. He is one of the best football coaches in the world, with a brilliant record of success here at Arsenal. I wouldn’t be here or the player I am without him.” (Agencies)