Sir Alex Ferguson: 'Robin van Persie improves others'

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has lauded Robin van Persie for the impact that he has had on his teammates so far this season.

The Dutch international joined the Red Devils during the summer from Premier League rivals Arsenal and has gone on to score 15 goals.

However, despite admitting that he has been delighted by the 29-year-old's performances in front of goal, Ferguson has revealed that it is the improvement that he has brought out of others that has been most impressive.

"It's not just his scoring ability, great though that is. It's the way he's improved those around him," Ferguson wrote in the club's programme.

United are believed to have parted with £24m to secure Van Persie's signature.