Robin does not need rest

ALEX FERGUSON plans to make Robin van Persie play his way back into goalscoring form for Manchester United.

The £22million striker has failed to score in his last nine games for United after his ‘winner’ at Sunderland was taken off him at the weekend.

United boss Ferguson hinted this week the former Arsenal star, 29, may be feeling the strain of his excellent first season at Old Trafford.

But he also believes leaving
out the 23-goal Dutchman at this stage of the campaign would be of little benefit.

Fergie a striker himself in his playing days  said: “Robin doesn't need a rest, that’s for sure. He’s a strong lad with a great physique.

“The goals will come, all strikers have little dry spells. You always hope it ends quickly, it’s just part of being a striker.”

He added with a smile: “I didn't have dry spells when I was a striker! But you have to get through that period and not lose your faith.

“My dad always said make sure you batter the ball when you’re in there, don’t tap it or side-foot it in the net.

“If the goalkeeper saves it, you can say ‘What a great save’. But if you try to side-foot it in and the keeper catches it, you’ll get criticized.”

RVP’s strike at the Stadium of Light eventually went down as a Titus Bramble own goal, meaning he has not scored for United since netting against Everton on February 10.

Ferguson said: “It was hit with such venom that it’s not surprising it took a deflection. It’s disappointing he wasn’t awarded the goal.

“But I can understand that because it took a wicked deflection.” Van Persie will have to get past the Manchester City defence on Monday if he is to end his poor run.

And Ferguson has warned his title-chasers they must not let their rivals knock them off course as they try to improve their 15-point lead.

He said: “It’ll be a big game for City, they’ll want to come and derail us for a spell. I can understand their motivation, we’d probably have the same motivation.

“But we’re at home and our consistency is there for all to see. I expect us to perform really well.

“The way we've approached things is the correct way and that’s to win the next game.”

United could be boosted by the return of hit man Wayne Rooney against City after a groin strain.

Fergie added: “Wayne has trained. Hopefully he’ll be fine by Monday.

Credits: The Sun