Van Persie used to playing in pain

Netherlands captain Robin van Persie claims he has been playing in pain for the past five to six years.

The Manchester United striker sparked fears over his fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup when he was substituted after the first half of the Netherlands’ 2-0 friendly victory over Wales on Wednesday due to a groin issue.

However, the 30-year-old was quick to allay any fears he could miss the tournament in the aftermath of that fixture, insisting his withdrawal was merely a precaution.

Van Persie scored 12 goals in 21 Premier League appearances for United last season, but was dogged by thigh and knee problems.

The former Arsenal man is adamant there is no cause for concern, however, because he is used to playing through pain.

“I’ve been playing with pain for the last five to six years, every single game,” Van Persie said in a press conference.

“I can’t really think of one game that I’ve started without having a niggle or some pain somewhere so I’m used to that.

“I think I know together with the team, the medical staff, how to deal with that and I’m the one that basically looks at that and manages that.”

Van Persie is set to lead the Netherlands out for their Group B opener against Spain on June 13, in what will be a repeat of the 2010 final in South Africa, which Spain won 1-0 thanks to Andres Iniesta’s injury-time winner.