Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby credits Manchester United striker Robin van Persie for getting him over his injury problems.

Diaby has suffered a staggering 18 injuries since badly breaking his ankle six years ago.

He told the Sunday Mirror: "Robin helped me last season.

"We used to talk about my situation and what he had been through, and he would give me some advice.

"He would tell me to keep going and make sure I completed my treatment.

"It was ­helpful because he had the same experience as well.

"He got over his injuries, kept going and at the end he became one of the best players in the world. It shows me what can be done and it gives me inspiration."