Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is thrilled with the goal scoring form of Robin van Persie.

Van Persie has scored 12 goals for his club this season - a remarkable achievement which Wenger was quick to hail.

"He has exceptional class. He has scored 27 goals in 26 games in 2011," the Frenchman said.

"There are many factors why he is in such good form. He has experience, he is top quality and he's at the right age as well.

"When you get to 27 or 28 you start to analyse quickly the weaknesses of the defenders around you, and you know how to take advantage of them and you also know how to take advantage of your team-mates around you."

Van Persie is 28, and Wenger said: "His intelligence of movement is exceptional and his confidence at the moment is so high that he takes advantage of every situation.

"The captaincy has contributed to his form as well."