Robin van Persie leapt over advertising boards to confront furious Feyenoord fans after his side were dumped out of the KNVB Cup with a 3-2 defeat to Heerenveen. The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker, now manager at De Kuip, faced angry supporters alongside captain Justin Bijlow after a 90th-minute winner sealed their eighth loss in 11 games.
Feyenoord had dominated the tie, enjoying 59 per cent possession and firing 22 shots to Heerenveen's ten, but still conceded late. Van Persie admitted the performance was 'painful, disappointing and not good enough,' and said he felt compelled to speak to fans. 'I think it's only natural that supporters show their emotions. I should be there and give them a platform to express their frustration,' he told ESPN.
The 42-year-old acknowledged that some fans want him sacked but insisted he is determined to turn things around. 'I'd love nothing more than to see Feyenoord do well and our supporters happy. I'll do everything I can to make them proud,' he said.
Feyenoord's slide has left them nine points behind Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven, while their Europa League hopes are slim after just one win in six group games. Van Persie blamed himself for recent defeats, including a 2-0 loss to Ajax, adding: 'We need to prepare the boys better. It's partly my fault.'
