• Champions League

Van Persie is 'walking on water' - Chamakh

ESPN staff
February 15, 2011
Marouane Chamakh has been hugely impressed with team-mate Robin van Persie © PA Photos
Enlarge

Marouane Chamakh has lost his place in the Arsenal team to Robin van Persie and he is tipping the Dutchman to torment Barcelona on Wednesday, as he claims his team-mate is "walking on water" at present.

Van Persie made a slow start to the season on account of injury and former Bordeaux man Chamakh was drafted in to the side in the early exchanges. His form was initially sharp, but he has suffered a dip in recent weeks and is now playing understudy to Van Persie. It is a role he is content with, given the quality the former Feyenoord man is demonstrating at present.

"By the start of January I felt I had completely lost my edge," Chamakh said. "So I've been given some rest and Arsenal have been able to profit from Van Persie's form. He is walking on water right now.

"I am fully aware of my new role as substitute. I hope to play again but it could be in March rather than February. It is a blessing in disguise as the team is doing well and I can get some rest."

Arsene Wenger feels Arsenal are reaping the benefits of wrapping Van Persie in cotton wool earlier in the season and is tipping the Dutchman to cause Barcelona problems in the Champions League.

The forward bagged both goals in the win over Wolves at the weekend and heads into the clash with Barca on Wednesday brimming with confidence.

"Robin had not played for a while and it took him some time to come back into form," Wenger said. "We used him well, not rushing him back. Now he is at his best."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices