Robin van Persie: I'm more ruthless

In-form Arsenal frontman Robin van Persie has revealed that the reason for his hot streak in front of goal is down to a new ruthlessness.

The Dutchman has scored 15 goals in 15 Premier League games this season and is two goals short of equalling Alan Shearer's record of 36 goals in a calendar year.

"You can tell by the goals I score that some of them come through pure willpower," said the 28-year-old. "You can tell by my face that the ball has to go in. I don't give a damn how.

"A few years ago I used to weigh up the options, think whether there was a chip, or a back-heel for a beautiful finish or whether someone else was free in front of goal.

"Now I'm more ruthless, though I can still enjoy a good assist."

Van Persie and Arsenal travel to league leaders Manchester City this afternoon.