Arsenal hero Martin Keown says they must do all they can to keep hold of Robin van Persie.

Keown, 45, says Gooners can play a part in persuading Van Persie to commit his future to the north London side.

He told the Daily Star Sunday: "Arsenal simply have to keep Van Persie. He is a real figurehead for the team and Arsenal can rely on him to score - he is our Messi. He scores really important goals and it would be a huge backwards step if we were to lose him.

"It is interesting to see how he has developed. I was at the club when he first came in as a young man and I think certainly the captaincy has given him something extra now.

"I can't imagine he would get the same ­adulation from fans elsewhere. The supporters love him and the contract situation needs to be addressed early and sorted out. Maybe it is linked to how successful the team is going to be - but he is certainly happy at the moment and he is in great form."