Van Persie will get respect on Arsenal return, says Wenger

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes Robin van Persie will be shown respect by supporters upon his return to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

The Dutchman has starred for Manchester United this season following a £24 million move from Arsenal, notching 24 top-flight goals to help fire Sir Alex Ferguson’s side to the Premier League title.

It has been suggested that some Arsenal fans are set to turn their backs on the planned guard of honour for the newly-crowned champions in protest at Van Persie’s perceived betrayal.

However, Wenger is certain the Netherlands international will be well received.

“We will respect the players that have played for us a long time as we always have done and treat them well before and after the game,” he said.

“As a champion or not as a champion it is exactly the same.

“What I want is for us to have a good game and to beat them, it doesn’t matter what kind of status they come with.”