Dutch international and Aston Villa’s newest recruit Ron Vlaar has urged his countryman Robin van Persie to stay on at Arsenal amid intense speculation linking him with a move away from the Emirates.
The 27 year old center back was a part of Bert Van Marwijk’s Dutch squad for the Euros which ended in a disappointing note for the runners up of the last World Cup. The injury to Joris Mathijsen paved the way for the new Villa boy to feature consistently for the Dutch until they got knocked out in the group stages itself.
The defender revealed that the 28 year old Gunners’ captain persuaded him to move to England and urged him to stay despite reports of an agreement with Juventus doing the rounds.
“I talked to Robin and several other players during the Euros,” said Vlaar.
“Robin told me if I had the chance then to come over, but it was still my decision and I’m very happy Aston Villa came in for me. I’m happy the deal was done.
“I really don’t know where he is going. I haven’t talked to him lately. I just hope he stays in England so I can face him. I’ve trained against him with the national team and he is a great player.
“It would be a big loss if he leaves England.