Robin van Persie
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By Chris Harris
Robin van Persie celebrates his 27th birthday today but he will be happy to wait until May for his present if Arsenal can gift-wrap the Premier League trophy this season.
The Dutch striker returned to training at Members' Day on Thursday after taking a break following Holland's run to the World Cup Final.
Van Persie worked on his fitness and then fielded questions from supporters at a special Members' Q&A alongside Andrey Arshavin, Tomas Rosicky and Emmanuel Eboue.
An ankle ligament injury sidelined the Dutchman for five months last term and he wants to make amends in 2010/11. Van Persie has pledged to win a trophy to repay the fans for their support and reward the team for its style of football.
"I have never stopped believing in Arsenal," said Van Persie. "I love this club, this is my seventh year now. Arsenal gave me a chance to develop into a good player and I want to repay the Club and the fans and everyone with trophies.
"I love the way of thinking at Arsenal, the way of playing really stands out. I know two teams who play similar football; they are us and Barcelona. Some teams are trying but not really coming close. I speak to colleagues in the national team from different big teams which have a different way of thinking.
"But I prefer our way of thinking, very much. That's why I believe and I don't stop believing when things go against us."
Van Persie emerged from the players' tunnel for the annual photocall on Thursday with a new number on his back - he has taken the No 10 shirt which was recently vacated by William Gallas. At the Q&A Van Persie explained the reason for his switch.
"I am looking forward to wearing the No 10, very much," he said. "I always played No 10 when I was younger but I never did since I turned professional so I am looking forward to it and for me it's a special number because Dennis Bergkamp had it for 11 years.
"I am very pleased to wear that number, it should be worn by a striker or a midfielder."
[Friday, August 06, 2010]
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