Identity Crisis?

In a single statement Robin van Persie has launched large sections, if not all, of the Arsenal support into an identity crisis. Where has our football gone? Ironically, a player famed for learning his trade on the streets, has called into question the very concept behind the so-called "joy of the game." It is not uncommon to read posts from Gooners around the world decrying van Persie's statement and announcing the end of the game as we know it. It is a personal blow, because unlike many recent Arsenal exports, van Persie was believed to be "one of us." He is the last player from the era of the Invincibles. No, he wasn't one of them, he was brought in directly after that achievement, and remained one of the few at the club since with the technical quality and innate footballing bravura to play alongside some of those greats.

Initially I was gutted by the announcement on van Persie's official site. I have been an admirer of this player more than any other since the Invincibles, and given my worship of Bergkamp, Robin is a natural choice as his successor. He has scored some amazing goals, is capable of jaw-dropping close control [a certain pre-season goal against Inter Milan comes to mind], and this past season has demonstrated an uncanny ability to find space in crowded penalty areas and appear unmarked despite the whole world knowing how much we relied upon him as our primary [and at times singular] goal threat. On top of all this he regularly speaks with intelligence and enthusiasm about the game and particularly the attacking, technical, pass and move style espoused by Wenger throughout his Arsenal reign.

O Captain, My Captain

we've got the best player in the league

It’s hard to believe there were doubts about Robin Van Persie’s credentials as a leader when you look back over the season he is having. Even as a longtime admirer of his playing ability I have to admit that he continues to impress in this regard. Amy Lawrence sums it up rather nicely in her piece for The Guardian. No disrespect to Henry or Fabregas as players but they don’t have a patch on RVP as a captain. He arrived with questions over his temperament and survived questions of his durability and we are now seeing the man, who grew up loving the club he now plays for [see him as a kid in the Arsenal kit on Stuart MacFarlane’s Flickr], emerge as a leader to rival Vieira and Adams. He inspires this Arsenal side. His technical ability was never in doubt. In fact, the likes of Bergkamp, Henry, Van Basten, and Cruyff have testified glowingly on behalf of his footballing skill.

He Scores When He Wants

Ripping an unstoppable shot against Chelsea at the Bridge in 2008

In 2008 after Arsenal conceded a two goal lead to draw 4-4 with the enemy down the road, they entered into a period where we began to see the real impact of Robin Van Persie. Nerves were jangling and we went to Stamford Bridge needing to make a statement.

Van Persie did just that with an outstanding brace, first with this effort, about a yard offside but executed with sublime technique and awesome power, and the second a brilliant one time turn and finish. Right foot, left foot, three points.  Heading into January of that season he began a stretch that would last a month and a half in which he scored or created every goal, with other incredible hits against Liverpool at the Grove and Everton at Goodison.

Now he’s just managed that kind of form for a full calendar year, and seems to be growing in every game. That’s a captain worthy of salute. 


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Van Persie assists first goal @ Blackburn 28 Aug 2010

Van Persie setting up Walcott's opening goal at Ewood Park last season. 

The interlull is a perfect time for me to publish a few efforts from the archive. Figured I'd give the Captain the first post in honor of his unbelievable form this season. Like so many of his actions, he had instant control with the first touch and with virtually no backlift slotted the ball with the outside of his foot for an onrushing Theo to bury.


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