Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits they lean heavily on Robin van Persie after his brace in victory over Sunderland.

Wenger was in no doubt that his team would have struggled without Van Persie's telling contribution.

"Robin was exceptional. When you analyse the game you see just how important he is," the Gunners boss said.

"The first chance was created by the play of the team and, with the second chance, he made the difference with his skill."