Arsenal better without RVP, says Martin

Norwich City defender Russell Martin believes Arsenal have improved as a team by selling Robin van Persie and investing in new players.

Arsenal have started the season in good form, with Santi Cazorla – the most high-profile of their summer signings – winning particular praise for his performances.

Martin believes Arsene Wenger has built a well-rounded team having also acquired the likes of Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud and anticipates a tough test when Arsenal visit Carrow Road on Saturday.

“They got rid of a fantastic player but brought in another three or four fantastic players to replace him,” Martin told The Sun.

“I know it sounds strange but I think that has made them a much stronger team. They were a great team with him and they are still a great team without him.

“But the difference is that instead of having three or four match winners, now they have nine or 10.”

Norwich are yet to win a match in the English Premier League this season but Martin believes they can take heart from their two close games against Arsenal during the previous campaign.

Van Persie made the difference in a 2-1 away victory before Steve Morison secured Norwich a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Emirates Stadium.

“It’s a massive game for us and we know how hard it will be,” Martin said. “But we went toe to toe with them in two games last season and we must try to match them again.”