It has not taken striker Robin van Persie long to impress Manchester United manager David Moyes.
The Holland international only linked up with his team-mates in Sydney on Sunday after missing the first 10 days of United's pre-season programme.
With 30 goals in all competitions last season, Van Persie was one of the major reasons why United were able to scoop a record 20th championship by an 11-point margin. Now Moyes has the task of working with the prolific Dutchman and he already likes what he sees.
"I got to see him this week for the first time," said Moyes. "You can see his ability in the control, touch and awareness he has shown, just in the small games we have played and bits of the finishing he has done this week.
"I have been impressed by his professionalism as well. We have overtrained him this week to try and make sure we build up his fitness but he has never complained about a thing."
The punishing nature of Van Persie's training schedule means he will not start Saturday's encounter with the A-League All Stars at ANZ Stadium.
Moyes confirmed he will be used as a second-half substitute though, before playing a more significant role when United fly off to Japan on Sunday.
"What we are trying to do is get him in a condition that would allow him to do exactly what he did last year; score goals for Manchester United and be a really big influence on the team and its performances," said Moyes.
"I am hoping he will be as big an influence again this season."
Despite having hardly any pre-season work behind him when he left Arsenal for Manchester United, Van Persie made an amazing start, scoring on his home debut against Fulham before claiming a match-winning hat-trick at Southampton.
Source: PA
