Van the man again as Gunners seal last 16 spot

ROBIN VAN PERSIE’S contribution to Arsenal’s rapidly improving fortunes continues to grow with the forward scoring twice, taking his recent tally to 12 goals in eight games, to secure qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League for an 11th successive season last night.

Crucially, Arsene Wenger’s side will progress as group winners, limiting the possibility they will be paired with one of European football’s heavyweights in the last 16, a priority given the chastening experience at the hands of Barcelona at the same stage last season.

This was by no means a vintage performance but while their Premier league rivals have floundered on the European stage this year, two composed finishes from Van Persie ensured the Gunners got the job done quietly and efficiently.