Wenger cautiously optimistic over RVP return

(GSM) – Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has urged the fans not to expect “miracles” from injured Robin van Persie should the Gunners forward return to action before the end of the season.

The Holland striker has been on the sidelines since suffering a serious ankle injury while playing for his national team against Italy November.

Van Persie, who had scored eight goals in 15 appearances before getting injured, has recovered well and is training at Arsenal’s London Colney training complex to complete his rehabilitation.

Wenger remains cautiously optimistic over the 26-year-old’s return and warned against expecting too much from the former Feyenoord man.

Wenger said, “Do not expect miracles when a guy has been out for such a long time.

“We are, though, happy to have him back and he is physically, fitness-wise, in good shape.

“We have just to get him back to full team fitness – that will take two to three weeks maximum.

“After that you have to get a few games to get back to your best.

“It is very difficult to predict.

“Physically it looks all good, but after that when he plays in games you have to see how his ankle responds.”

Van Persie even traveled to Serbia for radical treatment and used massage with a horse placenta to try to help the healing process when he discovered the true extent of his injury.

Wenger reflected: “When you are hit by injury, the first three weeks are very difficult.

“I believe that is behind him now, once you start to practice again.

“The most important thing at that age is to be tired at night – when you can train, you can deal better with the frustration.

“When you lie at home at the start of your injury and cannot even do anything, it is very frustrating.

“I believe the hardest time is behind him.”