Van Persie handed Gunners captaincy

Arsenal has confirmed Robin van Persie as its new captain following Cesc Fabregas’ departure to Spanish champions Barcelona.

The 28-year-old Dutch international will permanently assume the captain’s armband from the club’s home English Premier League fixture with Liverpool on Saturday, as the Gunners come to terms with the loss of 35 million-pound midfielder Fabregas.

Manager Arsene Wenger told the club’s matchday program van Persie was the natural choice, with the striker having captained the side through much of pre-season.

“He is a leader through the way he plays, through his attitude and through his desire to win,” Wenger said of the 28-year-old.

The new captain will be supported by defender Thomas Vermaelen and said he was looking forward to the challenge.

“As captain, you are an ambassador for the club and I’m ready for that,” van Persie said. “I’ve been in the game now for more than 10 years, so I know how this world works.”