Thomas Vermaelen has praised his fellow Arsenal teammate Robin Van Persie by saying that the Dutch striker is probably the complete player he has ever played with.
Robin van Persie has been one of the most influential players for Arsenal in the last few years, but his form has particularly been extraordinary in the calendar year 2011. So far, he has scored 33 goals in 34 matches for Arsenal in 2011 alone, while his very close to equalling the record set by Thierry Henry for the Invincibles in 2004. He is also only a few goals short of the all-time Premier League record set by Alan Shearer in 1995.
Now, Thomas Vermaelen, who is regarded as one of the best defenders at Arsenal, has come out in praise of the Dutchman. He has said that Robin van Persie has become much more complete in recent seasons after the departure of high profile players. Now, he has become a true captain for the club in every way. A lot has been spoken about Arsenal’s ability to keep in a challenge for the top four positions, but they have been able to maintain it in due to the exploits of Robin van Persie.
Thomas Vermaelen says that he is hoping that Robin van Persie signs a new contract with Arsenal. “I knew before that he was a quality, world-class player and that technically he was really good. It’s amazing if you play with him, even in training. He’s scoring goals now and his game is more complete,” Thomas Vermaelen said in the official website of Arsenal. Following the injury to Kieran Gibbs, Thomas Vermaelen will be assuming the role as the left back for Arsenal in the busy Christmas fixture list, and the Belgian defender hopes to do a better job in this new position as well.