Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is backing the club's youngsters to prove their value this season.

Van Persie - who netted 13 goals before breaking his metatarsal in the win over Manchester United last January - is in no doubt this current crop of talent have got what it takes to compete for the top prizes again.

"Football is not about age. It is not about money. It is not about those things. Football is about if you want to run for each other, if you want to fight for each other, if you want to really play some ball," the Dutchman reflected.

"Chelsea and Manchester did a great job last year. It is hard to fight with them, but I know we can do it.

"Liverpool have spent lots of money, Chelsea have been doing that the last few years. I respect that. This is their way of winning things - but we can win things as well.

"We are young. So what? Age does not matter. It is about the way we play football and the way we like to play together."

Van Persie added: "If you win the title with this team it would be great. I really believe we can do that. I really believe that in my heart. I think the manager is thinking the same.

"I started pre-season training on June 18 and I am with these boys every day, I see their ability.

"Yes they are young and young people make mistakes, but that does not really matter - like in love, age does not matter.

"Everyone was really happy to play in this game against Inter. If we play the same way or even less, we will have a big chance to at least fight for the title."