Gio van Bronckhorst has backed Arsenal striker Robin van Persie to become one of the game's leading players - for club and country.

Former Gunners favourite Van Bronckhorst, now back with Feyenoord, said: "People look at Robin in a different way now.

"If you compare him now from the boy who made his debut for the Dutch team - I remember him as a wiry, self-confident kid - his development has been tremendous. He's more consistent now and stronger. He's ready to take over a role as a leader in the team, both at Arsenal and with Holland, and Dutch fans recognise him as a star player for the future of the national team."