Podolski hoping team-mate stays

Lukas Podolski is hopeful that Robin van Persie will choose to stay with Arsenal.

The Dutchman last week insisted he wasn’t prepared to sign a new deal with the Gunners, something that disappoints the summer arrival.

"All I can say is Van Persie had an amazing record last season and hopefully there is a way he can stay with Arsenal," said Podolski.

"It would be great to play with him, but obviously this is not in my control."