Smalling in awe of Van Persie

MANCHESTER United defender Chris Smalling is amazed at how quickly striker Robin van Persie has adapted to life at Old Trafford.

Van Persie took his tally at United to 15 goals in 21 games with the opener in the 3–1 home win over Sunderland.

It is on a par with the legendary Ruud van Nistelrooy’s introduction and means the 29 year old has now scored 60 times in 72 Premier League games.

For Smalling, the achievement is even more remarkable given Van Persie had barely played a pre–season game before he was pitched into his debut at Everton in August, only 24 hours after completing his £24million move from Arsenal.

“He came straight into the matches and has been such a threat. He is putting teams on the back foot and making our job easier at the back.”

Even Sir Alex Ferguson must be slightly taken aback at how well Van Persie has integrated himself into the Old Trafford fold.

“He has a fantastic record,” said Ferguson. “Experience is counting for him now. He has the knowledge and ability and last season his form was terrific.”

Van Persie’s latest effort was followed by Tom Cleverley’s first Premier League goal at Old Trafford and Wayne Rooney’s fifth in four games, even if the England man also wasted a couple of good chances.