Robin van Persie "honoured" to receive Netherlands captaincy

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has admitted that he is "honoured" to have been handed the Netherlands captaincy by manager Louis van Gaal.

The 29-year-old wore the armband for the first time in his side's 3-0 win over Indonesia on Friday and he confirmed that the appointment is permanent.

"I'm very honoured with this," he told reporters. "On Monday the coach asked me if I wanted to be captain.

"It's very flattering so I accepted. This choice is not only for now but for a longer period."

Van Persie has made 74 appearances for the Netherlands and has scored 34 goals.