Van Persie: Arsenal entering ‘crucial time’

ROBIN VAN PERSIE feels Arsenal are about to embark on a crucial phase of the season.

The Gunners extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches with a resounding 4-1 demolition of AZ Alkmaar at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night to all but secure a place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

With leaders Chelsea and Manchester United – on whom Arsenal have a match in hand – clashing at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, the trip to Wolves tomorrow evening represents a real opportunity for Arsene Wenger’s young side to lay down a marker ahead of the international break.