Van Persie key to Manchester United's title charge

MANCHESTER (AFP) - Sir Alex Ferguson was relieved to welcome a fit Robin van Persie back to Manchester ahead of Saturday's clash against Wigan at Old Trafford.

The Dutch forward, who has started the season in impressive goal-scoring form for United, came off at half-time of Holland's 4-1 victory over Turkey with a thigh injury.

But it appears that his removal from that World Cup qualifier was merely a precaution and, with England centre-forward Wayne Rooney still sidelined after cutting his leg badly in the recent win over Fulham, van Persie's fitness is all the more important for United.

Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has certainly been impressed by the start the Dutchman has made to his United career, with four goals in his first three appearances.