Former Tottenham and Barcelona boss Terry Venables says Manchester United striker Robin van Persie is his player of the season - so far.

El Tel wrote in The Sun: "His £24million switch from Arsenal to Manchester United was the most eye-catching move of last summer.

"Many wondered if the Dutchman had made the right choice in snubbing champions Manchester City for their arch-rivals - and whether he could continue knocking in the goals at Old Trafford.

"Well, he has answered both questions with a resounding 'Yes'.

"RVP has hit 15 goals already to help United go six points clear of their so-called 'noisy neighbours' at the top of the table.

"Alex Ferguson's men are also safely through to the knockout phase of the Champions League, where they will play Real Madrid in a mouth-watering last-16 clash.

"It will be a tough test for United, but the arrival of Van Persie has given them an added dimension and impetus in attack."