Van Persie thanks former Man Utd boss Moyes

Robin van Persie has indirectly dismissed suggestions that he fell out with manager David Moyes and stopped performing when the Scot was leading United. Moyes left the club after just 10 months in charge during which time the club went to new lows every week. It was heavily speculated that van Persie was not happy with Moyes and his training methods. The Dutchman was the Premier League’s best last season, but this campaign, he has been on the sidelines more often than not.

He has scored just 12 goals in 21 appearances this season, which is a long way away from the stellar record he has been having in recent years. Opening up on the sacking of Moyes for the first time, van Persie said that he feels sorry for the former Everton manager. According to the Daily Mirror, he said:

"I think he tried his best and did everything in his power to make it work.

"I do feel sorry for him because when someone - a player or manager - gives his heart for the cause and it doesn't work out the way everyone wants, of course it is sad."

Moyes was thought to be unhappy with the commitment shown by his players. Apart from a few like Wayne Rooney, United players were largely seen as being responsible for the troubles faced by the club this season. It was also seen as the reason for Moyes failing to mention the players in his statement after the sacking. He thanked the club supporters, board, and Sir Alex Ferguson in the statement, but there was no mention of the players.

Van Persie, though, says that Moyes gave his all during his time at United. He continued:

"I wasn't there when he had his last meeting with the players (because of injury) but I have heard he did thank his players and had a really humble speech.

"We thanked him too because he gave his heart to the cause and I am absolutely sure he will find a good club where he will work for a very long time, because he is a football man."

Moyes is currently on a break and is expected to return to football management in a few months. He has become one of the names mentioned for the Tottenham job. As a manager, he has been without a break for more than a decade.

Manchester United are widely expected to name Louis van Gaal as his permanent replacement.