Van Persie picks out five most impressive Man Utd team-mates

Robin van Persie has picked out his five most impressive team-mates while he was at Manchester United.

The Dutch forward made the controversial switch from Arsenal to United during the 2012 summer transfer window. The striker cost just £22.5million plus add-ons and made an immediate impact, playing in every Premier League game.

Then aged 29, Van Persie was still at the peak of his powers and he scored 26 goals in the league, helping Sir Alex Ferguson win his last title at Old Trafford.

Van Persie, 36, who retired in May last year, was asked about the players he loved most from his time under Ferguson at Old Trafford.

Speaking to So Foot, he said: “It’s hard to answer because most of them were impressive in their own style.

“I think you always have to be yourself, and these players were strong because they expressed their own nature.

“[Nemanja] Vidic was a warrior. He put his head where normally it’s scary to do so. He did anything to win. Ferdinand, he was more ‘elegant’, comfortable with the ball, strong in aerial play, good in long play.

“[Ryan] Giggs was the flamboyant player, always giving the impression of being in his comfort zone. Still in great shape at 39! He did yoga and lived football all the time.”

 

 

 

Van Persie also said that former strike partner Wayne Rooney was a top-class player, while he was also impressed with the leadership of Patrice Evra.

“Rooney was impressive in his own style too. The guy was always full on.

“Also Patrice Evra, who always spoke loudly to instil confidence in the team. Today, I know he makes ‘funny’ videos, but please don’t believe that’s all he is, as he is also a super professional and a super-intelligent guy.

“He speaks five languages – even Korean! His physical appearance shows how professional he is. His mind is as strong as his body.”

READ MORE: Rooney: ‘I remember thinking he was not good enough to play for Man Utd’