Sir Alex salutes hit-man Van Persie

SIR Alex Ferguson compared Robin van Persie to Manchester United legend Eric Cantona after the Dutch striker's hat–trick won the club its record 20th league.

Van Persie's treble in the 3–0 win against Aston Villa at Old Trafford included a stunning volley which Ferguson ranks alongside the best of those by his greatest names.

Ferguson said: "He has made a fantastic contribution to our season. He has had as big as an impact as anyone. Cantona was an incredible impact player and I have been very lucky I have had some fantastic strikers.

"His performance for Arsenal last year was sensational. Winning the league tonight meant the world to him."

Asked if Van Persie's second was a contender for goal of the season honours, Ferguson added: "Of the century for me. It was a marvellous hit, head down, over the ball, perfect timing; a magnificent strike.

"He's been unbelievable, his early form in the first six months was fantastic. He had the spell where he didn't score but he was unbelievable tonight."

Ferguson also believes this squad of players stands equal with any of his previous sides.

"We've won most of our games, drawn three, lost four, and the goal tonight - all the great goals we've scored over the years, from David Beckham through Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Eric Cantona - that goal has joined that," he said.