Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is delighted with the way Robin van Persie has taken on his new role this season.

Wenger positively beams when asked to discuss just how well Van Persie, back in his native Holland before Tuesday's Champions League clash with AZ Alkmaar, has adapted to the lone striker role.

"I love him there, I must say," said Wenger.

"Because he has a brain, he can play others in and he can score. His movement is intelligent around the box and if we score a lot of goals, a big part is down to him.

"Look at the first goal we scored against Birmingham. You can say it was a bit lucky, but you need a specialist soft touch to control the ball in that situation.

"With a normal player the ball goes five yards away, but with his second touch he puts it straight back on his left leg and scores."