Manchester United’s Robin van Persie: I get scared for Nemanja Vidic

Nemanja Vidic and Robin van Persie

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has admitted that he will miss Nemanja Vidic’s presence at Old Trafford following Vidic’s decision to join Inter.

The combative Serbian, who was widely regarded as one the finest defenders in the world during his peak, has enjoyed a trophy laden stint with the Red Devils but is set to embark on a new challenge next season with the Italian giants.

However, the timing of Vidic’s announcement that he had chosen to depart on a free transfer was questionable, with the side struggling for form under former manager David Moyes when he made his intentions public knowledge.

Given his stature as club captain, the 32-year-old veteran will be sorely missed in the centre of defence and effectively ends yet another era at the club following the release of fellow centre-back Rio Ferdinand.

While his leadership and organisational skills will leave a void that new manager Louis van Gaal will have to fill, Vidic’s team mate Van Persie has revealed that the pair also built a strong bond with each other off the field.

“I think of him as a very good friend. We got along very well. The kids go to the same school. My wife and Nemanja’s wife are really good friends and we became really close in those last two years.

“I do count him as one of my best friends. When I think of him as a footballer, Nemanja puts his head where other players are scared to put their feet. That’s Nemanja,” Van Persie declared.

“At corners I’m always helping the defenders and he’s always close to me. I’ve seen him, time after time, diving with his head forward to block a ball. When I’m witnessing that, I’m scared for him. This is Nemanja. It’s unbelievable.

“I will miss him. Manchester United will miss him and Inter are very lucky to have him,” insisted the Dutchman.

Nemanja Vidic made an average of 13 defensive contributions per game last season, more than any other Manchester United player.