Moyes Defends Robin van Persie

Manchester United manager David Moyes has sprung to the defence of Robin van Persie, insisting the striker's recent comments about team-mates playing in 'his zones' were taken out of context.

The 30-year-old gave an interview to Dutch TV following United's recent Champions League defeat to Olympiakos, claiming that some of his team-mates were 'often playing in my zones' - which was interpreted not only as evidence of his frustration at the 2-0 defeat but even a sign of disenchantment with life at Old Trafford.

But Moyes, who watched Van Persie play 90 minutes for Holland in Paris on Wednesday, is adamant there is no problem with the player.

"I actually travelled back after the France v Holland game, with Robin and Patrice Evra," Moyes said.

"If you actually read the whole transcript, I think it was taken out of context... we understand fully.

"Robin is a really good player and we will do everything possible to make those opportunities work for Robin. A lot of what has been said (about Van Persie) isn't correct."

Moyes was taken aback by Louis van Gaal's decision to keep the striker on the pitch at the Stade de France.

"Robin was in his bed all day Tuesday being sick but he felt better on Wednesday and he played," the United manager said.

"I was a little bit surprised he played 90 minutes in a game they were losing 2-0 but he did do."

Moyes said Van Persie was fine and in contention for a place in United's team to face West Brom at the Hawthorns on Saturday.