Lukas Podolski hopeful that RVP will stay at Arsenal

With Arsenal club captain and talisman Robin van Persie's future still up in the air, German striker and new signing Lukas Podolski has said that he hopes the Dutchman will stay.

After joining Arsenal from Koln earlier this summer in a £10 million deal, Podolski is one half of two left-footed forward signings for the club, with Oliver Giroud joining the Gunners late last month.

However, Van Persie's refusal to sign a new contract has left many to ponder whether both are replacements for the veteran rather than signings to convince the captain of Arsenal's ambition. Speaking to ESPN, Podolski said that he hopes Van Persie will change his mind.

"All I can say is Van Persie had an amazing record last season and hopefully there is a way he can stay with Arsenal," he said. "It would be great to play with him, but obviously this is not in my control."

Podolski also spoke of his respect for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger and that in his opinion, too many have been quick to judge the Frenchman: "He has a record getting Arsenal into the Champions League every season and his reputation in Germany and all over Europe is very strong," the player added.

What I like about him is his passion for attacking football. He aims to play with style and flair all the time.Those are his principles and he'll never compromise on them. Some people are disappointed with him, but they need to realise what a great coach they have.

"Mr Wenger could have moved on to another club, I am sure, but instead chose to stay and build something over the long term. He lives and dies by his own ideas and Arsenal is his baby.

"His reputation has been built on improving players and if he can help me take my game up a notch or two I'll be delighted.