There is no doubt the absence of Dutchman Van Persie due to a string of niggling injuries was a major loss.

The 24-year-old had started the campaign in fine form with seven goals in his first 11 games before being sidelined by knee and muscular problems, which would hamper him for the remainder of the season.

Wenger, though, believes the Holland international - who returned to form with a couple of goals during the run-in and is set to feature at Euro 2008 this summer - can be a major player if his injury jinx does not strike again next season.

"Robin is unfortunate with injuries at the moment, but in my opinion it is nothing more than that," the Arsenal manager said.

"It is true that he has missed many, many games this year.

"We lost him and Eduardo at the same period and it was really bad luck because Eduardo had come on well too.

"You always hope that next season Robin will have an injury-free season.

"He has so much talent so I am very keen to keep him, I trust him and I hope that he will get rid of his injuries.

"For me, Robin van Persie is world class."