Wenger warns Dutch over van Persie

Wenger warns Dutch over van Persie

Published Oct. 19, 2010 11:15 a.m. ET

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says it would be "an absolute scandal" if Holland call up Robin van Persie for a friendly next month.

Dutch boss Bert van Marwick is under the impression that his star striker will have suitably recovered from an ankle injury in time to face Turkey on November 17.

But Wenger is adamant that Van Persie will not be available for the friendly next month and has said it would be 'an absolute scandal' if the forward was called upon.

"I think the Dutch coach has a good sense of humour, there is no chance," said Wenger in the Daily Telegraph.

ADVERTISEMENT

"That would be an absolute scandal if he plays in a friendly and not a competition here. He would not be ready.

"The players have to perform for their clubs first. If they are okay for their clubs they can play for their national team. You cannot have the reverse."

But Van Marwijk has said: "Robin is expected to be back in the national team next month. We expect him to play."

Van Persie was sidelined in August when he sustained the injury against Blackburn, but FIFA rules mean Holland could call on the striker.

share