RUUD VANISTELROOY FULL OF PRAISE FOR VAN PERSIE

Ruud Van Nistelrooy the former Old Trafford hero who scored 150 goals in a five-year spell at Manchester United  believes that his countryman Robin Van Persie can spearhead Sir Alex Ferguson's side back to the league crown that they surrendered to Manchester City last season .

According to the retired Dutchman, Van Persie who has already netted eight times in 13 appearances for the club - can give United the edge in their battle to win back the crown they lost to Manchester City last season.

He told The Daily Mirror: "As Robin is proving right now, he's making the difference on many occasions. If he can keep going like this through the whole season then I can see United landing another title win”.

"I think he's fitted in really well at United. It's important for a striker when he goes to a new club to start getting his goals in early.

"That's what happened to Robin. He has the experience of the Premier League already and he’s proved to be a great signing, the way he plays."

The former PSV Eindhoven and Real Madrid striker feels Van Persie has justified £24 million [€29.8m] price-tag since joining the Red Devils from Arsenal in the summer.

Van Nistelrooy added: "I was close to him playing in the national team and I was convinced of his qualities then.

"It still has to work out, but hopefully he can go on and do even better. It's great to see, the way he plays.

"Robin fits into United's playing style. He's everywhere, involved in all of the play and the finishing as well, so that makes him special."