Emirates Dutchman responsible for Van der Vaart’s move to White Hart Lane?

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June 24, 2010 - Cape Town, South Africa - epa02220696 Dutch player Robin van Persie (L) celebrates his 1-0 score for the Netherlands with teammate Rafael van der Vaart during the FIFA World Cup 2010 group E preliminary round match between Cameroon and Netherlands at the Green Point stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, 24 June 2010.

Arjen Robben made it no secret he reckons Robin Van Persie will be quite upset to face his friend and compatriot Rafael Van Der Vaart in the North London derby. Robben added that signing Van Der Vaart makes Tottenham as strong as Arsenal, calling him the best.

“With Rafa on board, Spurs really do have one of the very best midfield players in the Premier League, maybe even the best.Robben also believes that Arsenal star Robin van Persie had been trying to tempt Van Der Vaart into a move to the Emirates.

‘I knew of his interest in England and that van Persie had been speaking with him about how great life in London was. I think when Robin was trying to convince him how great London and the Premier League was, it was as though he was trying to convince him to join Arsenal.

‘It’s kind of backfired on Robin a little bit now, though, because he has signed for their biggest rivals.’ (Daily Mail)

I can just see it now. Robin Van Persie is singing the praises of north London life, telling Rafael Van der Vaart of all that Upper Street and Islington has to offer, the nice eateries and swanky bars the Dutch midfielder can enjoy with his lovely wife. Then he goes and decides that Tottenham is more his cup of tea.

In all seriousness the signing of Van der Vaart will go some way to taking the White Hart Lane outfit to the next level and I say that as an Arsenal fan. There is no denying that Harry Redknapp has turned the club around and whilst it irritates me no end that this has occurred it is nonetheless undeniable.

I am of course confident we can stay ahead of our north London rivals but I am honest enough to realise the great strides Spurs have made of late. Clearly having the carrot of Champions League football had a great deal to do with the capture of the Real Madrid man and he will further strengthen an already strong squad.

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