By John Stammers
Jonny Evans has insisted Robin Van Persie’s decision to leave Arsenal has “paid off” after the Dutchman’s hat-trick fired Manchester United to the Premier League title.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s men secured their 20th domestic championship crown with a win over Aston Villa on Monday night, with the 29-year-old striker netting all three goals in a 3-0 victory.
The defender praised his team-mate, who has scored 24 times so far this season, for all aspects of his game and believes the forward’s first Premier League winners medal is proof that his decision to move to Old Trafford was the right one.
“Robin has been absolutely fantastic,” he told the club’s official website. “His work-rate and finishing ability are phenomenal. He wants to score goals and he’s disappointed when he doesn’t even when we get the points.
“He was captain of Arsenal and obviously a very mature person and very respectful guy – he’s got a bit of an aura about him and has settled in brilliantly.
“You can tell by the way he plays and his whole demeanour that he is really enjoying things here. He came here because of his respect for the philosophy of the club and it’s paid off for him.”
And the Northern Irishman is confident the Red Devils have a bright future ahead, with their squad containing the perfect mix of experience and fresh hunger.
“We’ve got a lot of experience and players who are maturing at the right time,” he continued. “I can honestly say that we all come into training every day with a smile on our faces.
“The first title just makes you more hungry. You experience that feeling and you don’t want anyone else to have it.
“You develop a selfishness and a determination to experience that feeling again and again. It’s a great motivation for everyone.”
The 25-year-old then admitted the disappointment of losing out to rivals Manchester City on the final day of last season only added to their determination this term.
“What happened last season has been in the back of our minds and perhaps subconsciously it gave us an extra motivation,” he added.
“But we’re always determined to succeed here no matter what. You have to look forward. That’s one of the great things about the manager – he is looking forward regardless of whether we win or lose the league.”
