Robin van Persie: 'Spurs win is vital'

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has claimed that a win against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday is "vital".

The Gunners go into the match at the Emirates Stadium 10 points behind their local rivals in the Premier League table.

"I'd rather be playing them now than on any other day, and we know that a win is absolutely vital," Van Persie told Arsenal's official website.

"I don't think anybody would deny that Spurs have a really good side – and they've added consistency this season.

"They're winning the tougher games and, as a result, have made that next step towards the top teams."

Spurs won the reverse fixture at White Hart Lane 2-1 earlier this season.