Robin Van Persie is rated as doubtful for Holland’s friendly with England this evening after failing to complete training yesterday. The Arsenal skipper felt some discomfort in his groin towards the end of the session and was withdrawn as a precautionary measure.
Van Persie is thought to have initially picked up the problem in the 5-2 win over Spurs on Sunday but, while some reports claim Arsenal were aware of the knock and considered it to be minor, others claim the Gunners were oblivious to any problem.
The player will undergo a fitness test this morning ahead of the clash and it seems if there is any doubt, Van Persie is unlikely to feature. Arsene Wenger has been keen to ensure his captain doesn’t over-exert himself on international duty and the Dutch FA will be unlikely to ire Wenger by fielding Van Persie if the player is at risk.
Dutch boss Bert van Marwijk put a positive spin on the situation, though, claiming Van Persie sat out the rest of training as nothing more than a precautionary measure. Van Marwijk is certainly confident the Arsenal star will feature at Wembley, saying:
We do not take risks with Robin. I did it so that he can play on Wednesday. We will have to wait and see but I don’t think it’s too serious. I am optimistic he will play.
Obviously, any absence on the domestic front would have a major effect on our Fantasy thinking but for now, Van Marwijk’s words should put us at ease. Tonight’s lineup at Wembley will be eagerly anticipated, then.
