Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Robin van Persie can handle a hostile atmosphere at Arsenal.

His appearance at his former club this weekend is unlikely to go down well with the Arsenal fans who felt he had let them down by leaving in the summer.

"I don't bother about it, and I don't think Robin should bother about it either," said Ferguson. "There was a bit of booing when he played at Old Trafford and I expect a portion of fans will do that.

"That is the modern generation I am afraid."

Arsene Wenger has confirmed on Friday morning that United will be given a guard of honour in recognition of their championship triumph, a move Ferguson has backed.

"I am glad Arsene has done that, when they came to Old Trafford in 2002 and Sylvain Wiltord scored the only goal, we did exactly the same," he said. "That is what great clubs should do."