Arsenal star Van Persie: Barack Obama my hero

Arsenal ace Robin van Persie says US President Barack Obama is his new role-model.

"I want to know more about the man," the striker told the News of the World.

"Obama was always calm. Whenever Presidential rival John McCain shouted and screamed, Obama remained in control.

"I try to do the same - if someone provokes me, I don't react. That's the best way. Manager Arsene Wenger has introduced Obama's 'Yes we can' philosophy into the dressing room.

"Nothing is impossible. No one would have said a few years ago that a black man could be US President. No one thinks that Arsenal, with our budget, can win trophies."