Van Persie reveals frustration

Published May. 19, 2011 10:53 a.m. ET

foxsports

Robin van Persie has assured Arsenal's fans that the players are just as disappointed as they are at the way their season has panned out.

Since losing the Carling Cup final to Birmingham back in February, the Gunners have seen their hopes of silverware slip away.

Last weekend's deflating defeat at Aston Villa means Arsene Wenger's side could miss out on a third-placed Premier League finish, and automatic qualification to the Champions League group stage, to Manchester City.

And Van Persie says he and his team-mates take responsibility for their frustrating campaign.

The Dutchman told The Sun: "I can understand the fans' reaction because I feel connected with them and know they are frustrated.

"The players share that frustration but we are giving it everything.

"I am the first person to say when something isn't good enough and I'm not trying to hide from our results."

Van Persie, who has netted 17 league goals this term, has been pleased with his personal form, but admits the Gunners' lack of success has taken the shine off his own achievements.

He said: "This is definitely the best scoring form of my career but there's been lots of ups and downs for me and for the team this season."

Despite Arsenal's disappointment this season, Van Persie was encouraged by their home win over Spanish giants Barcelona in the last 16 of the Champions League.

"The highlight was beating Barcelona at home," he added.

"When you look at them, they play four or five top games in a row and then have one when they don't play so well but still win.

"That is when you can say you are a hugely good team - and that has to be our aim at Arsenal."