Fitting tribute to Robin van Persie

By Randy Osae

Robin van Persie’s contract renewal on Wednesday marked a promise for the future and as he remarked, he will definitely serve us his “best years” in coming seasons.

The Dutchman has come a long way since becoming a Gunner in 2004. Ferocious efforts, thunderbolt strikes, flying volleys, we have seen them all.

That talent had been hampered by footballers’ biggest nemesis, injuries. One certainty was that Van Persie would always show not just a glimpses but well-staged moments of brilliance.

We always knew he had it for every campaign, but Robin only gave a few moments to savor.

It was all until last season, when Arsenal’s cunning Dutch import proved durable for the stretch of a season for once.

Such contributions would be 20 goals in just over twice as many appearances with various assists and for the nearly-man that he is, Van Persie also added more numbers to his count of times he hit the woodwork.

Nonetheless, 63 goals in 177 appearances so far (which makes him the club’s all-time top scorer in the current squad) epitomizes the fact that Van Persie has made his own difference at this club.