Why Manchester United’s top-four hopes hinge on Robin van Persie

It did not take long. After 11 games out, it took Robin van Persie just six minutes to score on his Manchester United return. While all the focus before the game was on Juan Mata’s debut, it was the Dutchman who reminded the supporters what they’ve been missing during his lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s last defining signing became an Old Trafford hero within a season of joining the club. In April, his hat-trick against Aston Villa summed up a magnificent first season in Manchester; United fans revelled in claiming that the first goal won the league, the second the goal of the season and the third the golden boot. Van Persie’s decision to leave Arsenal and link up with Ferguson was vindicated as United secured their 20th league title.

This campaign has been very different for the club and the player. The injury issues that affected van Persie during his time in North London have returned and some have interpreted his body language as being somewhat negative, indicative of a man who was assured Ferguson would be around for a few more seasons and disappointed with the arrival of David Moyes. Despite this, the striker has repeatedly insisted he has faith in the new man. Just this month, he said: ”Moyes needs time, he’s new. The manager is our leading man and he will change things around.”

Having Wayne Rooney and Van Persie fit again, arguably United’s two best players, could make a huge difference. Add Mata and Adnan Januzaj to the mix and you have a forward line with the ability to make things happen, one that ought to be more than capable of a late charge for a Champions League place. Moyes was in uncharacteristically good spirits on Tuesday night, stating: “Has my mood improved? Yes because I know that I have some really good players coming back.”

Mata admitted he did not train well last week at Chelsea as he looked to push through a transfer. Rooney and van Persie understandably still lack a bit of sharpness after prolonged periods out of action. The squad is still not all it could be (as evidenced by a central midfield pairing of a 40-year-old Ryan Giggs and Phil Jones, primarily a defender) but players like van Persie can make all the difference. Last season he was able to inspire his team to the title, this time around the fans will be content if he can just galvanise his team-mates enough to secure a place in the top four.