The striker says Diego Maradona's achievements have inspired him the most before adding he enjoyed watching the likes of Eric Cantona and Thierry Henry when a youngster
Robin van Persie has hailed Diego Maradona as his biggest influence in football... and also the best player to ever grace a football field.
The striker made the revelation during a question-and-answer session with the Europa League's official Facebook page, adding that he has met the Argentine on a few occasions.
Van Persie also quizzed on his inspirations as a youngster and his favourite players from his early memories of the Premier League, where the Dutchman spent the majority of his career before joining Fenerbahce.
"Diego Maradona," Van Persie revealed. "I've met him a couple of times. He's a very special person, very warm. What he did was unbelievable.
"When I was younger I enjoyed watching Dennis Bergkamp, Romario when he was playing for PSV and, later, [Brazilian] Ronaldo.
"When I started watching the Premier League, [Eric] Cantona, Bergkamp and Thierry Henry [were my favourites]."
- Goal