Former England striker Alan Shearer believes that Robin van Persie will break his record for Premier League goals in a calendar year.

Shearer set his record of 36 goals in 1995 during his spell at Blackburn Rovers but Arsenal forward van Persie is close to breaking it, having scored 33 goals in 2011 for the North London Club.

Writing in his column for The Sun, Shearer explained: "He has answered a lot of questions over the last 12 months with 33 goals in 32 Premier League games - and not just as his team's main striker but as Arsenal captain."

Despite Arsenal's recent good form, Shearer claims that it is vital that the Gunners keep hold of the Dutch international.

"For them to even consider selling Van Persie would be unthinkable and I am sure Arsenal will be doing all they can to get him to sign an extended contract," he added.

Arsenal will be hoping Van Persie can add to his goal tally this weekend as Arsene Wenger's side travel to the Etihad Stadium to take on Manchester City.