Arsenal striker Robin van Persie thanked his team-mates after he was named as the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year on Sunday night.

The 28-year-old Holland forward has enjoyed his best ever season in the Premier League, scoring 27 goals to lift his side to third place in the table.

The PFA award is voted for by players and a modest Van Persie said it would not have been possible without the service of his club colleagues.

“Without them I could not have achieved it,” he said. “For example Theo Walcott, he has given me more than 12 assists and I do really appreciate that.

Van Persie described the award as “special,” adding, “It is even more special if your opponents are saying it.

“It is very special because you are playing against them week in week out and every single player does everything to win. In the end, if they make up their minds that I am the best player it is a big honour.”

Tottenham Hotspur full-back Kyle Walker was named the Young Player of the Year.