Manchester United are rallying round their misfiring striker Robin van Persie ahead of Sunday’s awkward-looking trip to Stoke City as Sir Alex Ferguson vows to avoid the ‘carelessness’ that cost them the league title last season.
Van Persie has failed to score in his last 10 games, a run that is likely to cost him becoming Footballer of the Year despite a blistering start to his career at Old Trafford.
Yet it would still be a major surprise if the 29-year-old Dutchman is dropped at the Britannia Stadium today. Victory would see United restore their 15-point advantage over Manchester City after losing 2-1 at home in the derby on Monday night.
Out of luck: Robin van Persie has not scored in the last 10 games
Don't worry: Ferguson is not concerned by Van Persie's form
Ferguson is sensitive to criticism about his leading scorer just because he has not netted for his club since February 10. ‘Listen, Van Persie was fantastic on Monday. Along with Phil Jones he was our best player,’ said Ferguson.
‘I haven’t paid attention to the selections for Footballer of the Year since 1999 when we won the Treble and David Ginola of Spurs was given Player of the Year.
‘For this year, I don’t watch all of the players all the time but, if I had a vote, Van Persie would surely be up there.’