Arsene Wenger believes that handing the captain's armband to Robin van Persie has made him a better player.

The Dutchman became Arsenal's skipper following Cesc Fabregas's departure to Barcelona in the summer and has gone on to bag 27 goals in the Premier League this season.

Wenger said that Van Persie has earned the respect of his teammates with some outstanding performances during this campaign.

"He took his role seriously on and off the pitch and I think it added something to his determination as well," the Frenchman told Arsenal Player.

"That is why maybe his commitment was even stronger - because he feels more responsibility. He grew into this role.

"The best way to be a captain for me is to be a fantastic football player, that is the best way to get respect in your team. He did that remarkably well."

Van Persie joined the Gunners from Dutch side Feyenoord in 2004.