RVP out to set record straight

Published Jan. 21, 2012 1:15 p.m. ET

foxsports

Van Persie admits he is still hurting from the humiliating 8-2 hammering they suffered at the hands of United in August.

The Dutchman is hoping to secure some payback for the fans who had to witness the crushing defeat at Old Trafford when United make the visit to the Emirates on Sunday.

"The last thing I want to do is make excuses. That game was played, we cannot erase that from history," Van Persie told The Sun.

"Since I have been playing for Arsenal we have never been defeated like that.

"It is never nice to lose, we gave it our all that day but it simply was not good enough.

"I am going to be honest. To lose like that, by that scoreline, hurts, really hurts.

"But that is now history and all of us are really looking forward to this Sunday's match.

"In football you will always get another chance to set things straight again. We want to do this for the team spirit and mainly for our fans.

"We will never forget how great their support was before, during and after that game. The fans out there that day were amazing, they showed us the ultimate support. We want to make amends for them."

Van Persie, who has netted 22 goals for Arsenal this season, believes Arsenal are still in the title race and he knows they will have to be at their best to beat rivals United.

"There is no doubt that the game against United is a big one for our season but all games are important.

"We're still in the title race and, with 17 games to go, we just have to take it game by game and give it our all every time we step out on the pitch.

"Games against United are always tough. No matter which 11 players they have on the pitch, they are always strong and difficult to break down.

"Like us, they've suffered with some injuries in defence this season but they have adapted well and it would be a mistake to underestimate them.

"We know we have to be on the very top of our game to come away with three points and everyone at the club is focused on winning this weekend.

"We know we have to play well as individuals and as a team to beat them."