Van Persie undecided over Todd blow

Robin van Persie insisted that even a painful cut lip was a price worth paying for sealing Arsenal’s place in the FA Cup final against arch rivals Manchester United.

Van Persie is relishing the chance of playing some part in next month’s final after scoring twice in the 3-0 semi-final victory against Blackburn.

After all, it was only a few weeks ago that his Arsenal future was placed in some doubt after his loss of self-control in getting himself sent off at Southampton.

It was not the red card or even the loss of two crucial points that most annoyed Arsene Wenger, but the 21-year-old striker’s “flashiness” and immaturity.

However, the Arsenal boss has since been impressed at how van Persie has turned his career around, as witnessed by his brief but inspirational late substitute’s role in the Millennium Stadium.

Indeed, van Persie was even prepared to take Andy Todd’s outstretched arm on the chin as he wheeled away to celebrate his second goal.

“Initially, because I was turning to celebrate, I was unaware of Todd approaching. I am not sure if it was accidental or not but it was strange,” he admitted.