With Euro 2012 lurking around the corner it seems an ideal time to take a look at a pick of Europe’s top talents, in particular the goal scorers that hope to fire their nation to glory in Poland and Ukraine this summer.
Injuries have blighted previous seasons for Holland’s Robin Van Persie but the Arsenal striker has shown just what he is capable of doing when he stays off the fitness table. At times throughout the season Van Persie singlehandedly won games for the Gunners helping to turn around a campaign that started catastrophically. The North London club eventually finished 3rd owing much to Van Persie’s 30 league goals for their Champions League spot next season.
Described by many as the new Dennis Bergkamp, Robin Van Persie is not only a goal scorer his dead ball skills mean he contributes with assists from corners and free kicks. With the ability to play as a lone striker, the main man or as a left sided forward in a 3 pronged attack RVP can be effective in various formations.
At only 28 there are still plenty of years left in the Dutchman’s legs, especially at international level as he looks to add to his 26 goals in 64 caps for The Oranje. Van Persie was a pivotal part of Bert Van Marwijk’s side during the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign contributing with 4 goals in an 11-0 win over San Marino.
Arsenal will be looking for their star man to sign a new contract this summer with only one year left to run on his current deal. This summer’s tournament could be the perfect stage for the striker to show his worth to potential suitors.
A genuine contender for the Golden Boot this summer Robin Van Persie will be part of an attacking Dutch team attempting avenge their World Cup Final defeat to Spain in South Africa two years ago.
Sam Jewell
For more Football Blogs and opinion from football fans around the world