Arsenal will form a guard of honor for Robin van Persie and his title-winning Manchester United team-mates, Arsene Wenger has confirmed.
Van Persie, who left Arsenal last year in search of silverware, returns to the Emirates less than a week after his hat-trick against Aston Villa secured the Premier League trophy for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.
The Dutchman will now be clapped onto the pitch in a guard of honor but though the gesture will rile fans still upset about his £22.5m departure, Wenger has called on supporters to show respect to their former talisman.
"I want the traditions of English football to be respected," said Wenger, when asked if his players would form a guard of honor.
"We respect Robin van Persie like every other player who has left and comes back. I want the player to be respected.
"He is a massive talent with world-class technique and huge experience with the national team and in the Champions League. I had no doubt he'd adapt.
"I think Arsenal had a positive impact on the life and career of Robin van Persie.
"You always miss a big player but now we are stabilized. We are on a very strong run. We have a good level of confidence and a great desire.
"What we know is that we will need a great performance to beat Manchester United. That's what we will focus on."
