Van Persie delays talks

The in-form Holland international, 28, has been the subject of recent speculation linking him with a move away from the Emirates Stadium with his current deal expiring in 2013.

However, speaking ahead of Sunday's derby with Tottenham, Van Persie has sought to clarify the situation, saying discussions over a new contract with the Gunners will not start before the end of the season as he only wants to focus on playing matters.

"There have been a lot of stories, generally contradictory ones, about my contract situation recently so I'd like to make it clear," the Arsenal captain said.

"There's nothing complicated or sinister - the club and I have both agreed to speak at the end of the season and see how things stand. The boss, Ivan Gazidis and I are all comfortable with it.

"I need all my focus to be on football - on captaining this team, improving every day, doing extra work on the training pitch and preparing for the very busy schedule of fixtures we have."